Spectroscopy

The Spectroscopy program in the Grain Research Laboratory objectively measures spectral characteristics of grains and grain products. Researchers develop objective methods for grain quality assurance that enhance grain grading and inspection, and characterize the end-use quality of cereal grains, oilseeds and pulses in the Canadian Grain Commission's harvest survey and in quality monitoring. They also develop methods for use in Grain Research Laboratory research programs. Using hyperspectral imaging, useful wavebands are identified in order to develop dedicated image analysis applications.

The hyperspectral imaging system is used to determine key wavelengths for developing stand-alone applications.

Research

• Works with Canadian Grain Commission inspection specialists to develop technology for use in grading that assesses spatial and spectral characteristics of grains. Example: Preliminary methods for separating red and white wheat classes and measuring grading factors.
• Works with Grain Research Laboratory research scientists to develop methods for assessing spectral characteristics of oilseeds, pulse grains and cereal grain products.
• Focuses on identifying key wavelengths linked to various grading factors in cereal grains and end-use products.

Technology and standards

Uses:

• State-of-the-art hyperspectral imaging capabilities
• Chemometrics, statistical methods, neural networks and spectral angle mapper techniques to process raw data into meaningful information
• A system having a spectral range of 400-1000 nanometers, covering the visible as well as a portion of the near infrared part of the electromagnetic spectrum.