CHOOSING AN NIR INSTRUMENT AND A SAMPLE PRESENTATION OPTION PLANT AND SOIL ANALYSIS

To obtain accurate and repeatable analyses using NIR technology it is important to select an NIR instrument and / or its sample presentation attachments which allow the operator to minimize sampling errors without compromising the benefits of NIR analysis -namely rapid, low cost, minimal sample preparation, minimal structural facilities, minimal hazards. For each sample type and consistency there may be different optimal combinations of instrument, sample presentation attachment, and sample preparation. This paper will consider options available to NIR users in the area of plant and soil analysis and evaluate the potential benefits and disadvantages of crop nutrient diagnoses using laboratory based and airborne imaging techniques.