This Spanish startup has achieved something that no one else has been able to until now: manufacture mid-wave, non-refrigerated infrared sensors that not only collect data from a single point—like others in the market—but are capable of gathering data over a wider area. These devices can provide significant cost savings for hundreds of industries around the world in certain industrial processes.

The wavelengths of infrared radiation are longer than those of visible light. This means that we can’t see them, even though they’re present. People even emit this type of radiation, just as any object does whose temperature is greater than absolute zero (0 degrees Kelvin or -273.15 degrees Celsius). However, all objects do not emit the same type of infrared radiation because it varies according to its wavelength: long-wave, mid-wave or short-wave.

Sensors already exist that can detect each of these spectral bands. Those for long-wave can detect objects whose temperatures are greater than 20 degrees. These are used, for example, in equipment to detect the presence of human beings, such as night vision. Mid-wave sensors register objects with temperatures surpassing 80 degrees such as a missile or a bullet. And short-wave sensors detect objects with temperatures over 300 degrees like a comet. Devices for each of these ranges can be made with or without a refrigeration system, which affects their sensitivity and what they can be used for.

For the first time in history, New Infrared Technologies has been able to manufacture mid-wave infrared sensors that are capable of capturing data not only from a single point but also over a wider area. These devices can generate significant cost savings for many sectors, such as the automobile industry.

The devices can also be used to detect gases. This functionality is very valuable for the petrochemical industry from a safety standpoint, given that it can help to detect leaks and prevent accidents.

In addition to these industrial applications, the sensors could be used in the defense industry in order to detect threats such as a projectile heading toward an aircraft.