Mid Infrared Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (MIR spectroscopy) is a rapid, high throughput method for characterizing the chemical composition of materials. A sample is illuminated and the diffuse reflected light (electromagnetic radiation) is measured in narrow wavebands. The resulting spectral signature summarizes how much energy was absorbed at each wavelength. Spectral signatures respond to soil organic and mineral composition. Analysis of specific absorption features also reveals details about the molecular structure of the sample, for example organic matter quality. MIR provides a rapid, low cost, non-destructive method of analyzing soils without use of chemicals.
