CHNSpec Technology （Zhejiang）Co.,Ltd

What Is a Colorimeter?

In today's global manufacturing industry, where ultimate quality is pursued, color consistency is a direct reflection of brand power. Whether it is automotive paint, plastic products, textiles, or food packaging, a slight color deviation can lead to product returns or damage to brand image. So, what exactly is a colorimeter—the "sharp eye" used to accurately capture and quantify color in industrial production? And how does it work? This article will take you through a comprehensive understanding of this core color measurement tool. 1. What Is a Colorimeter? A colorimeter is a highly precise psychophysical color measurement instrument used to quantify and describe the color of a sample. It mimics the human eye's perception of color but eliminates human subjectivity, fatigue, and environmental lighting variables. By measuring the absorbance and transmittance of specific wavelengths of light, a colorimeter converts visual color into objective, standardized numerical data (such as L*a*b* or L*C*h* color spaces). This allows manufacturers to establish a clear "color standard" and measure the precise deviation (known as ΔE) between a production sample and the target color. 2. How Does a Colorimeter Work?To understand how a colorimeter works, we can look at its internal optical system, which generally consists of three core components: a light source, a set of filters, and a photosensitive detector. The process follows these precise steps: Step 1: Illumination: The instrument’s internal standard light source (usually a long-life LED or Xenon lamp) shines a broad-spectrum light onto the surface of the sample. Step 2: Filtering: The light reflected from or transmitted through the sample passes through a set of specialized tristimulus filters. These filters mimic the sensitivity of the human eye's three types of color receptors (red, green, and blue cones). Step 3: Detection & Calculation: The filtered light hits a high-sensitivity photodetector, which measures the intensity of each primary color wavelength. The internal microprocessor then calculates these signals into international standard tristimulus values (X, Y, Z) and outputs them as readable coordinates like L*a*b*. Through the above formula, the colorimeter instantly tells you if the sample is too red, too blue, too dark, or too light compared to your standard. 3. What Are Colorimeters Used For?Colorimeters are essential quality control (QC) tools utilized across a vast range of industries where color accuracy is critical. Their primary applications include: Quality Control & Inspection: In manufacturing lines (plastics, textiles, paints, coatings), colorimeters are used to check incoming raw materials and inspect finished products to ensure they match the approved master sample. Pass/Fail Assessment: Suppliers use colorimeters to set specific tolerance limits (ΔE < 0.5). If a production batch exceeds this limit, the instrument flags it as a "Fail," preventing defective goods from being shipped. Supply Chain Standardization: For global brands, colorimeters ensure that components manufactured by different suppliers in different countries (e.g., the plastic cap and the glass bottle of a cosmetic product) match perfectly when assembled. Aging and Durability Testing: Companies use them to monitor color degradation or fading over time when products are exposed to UV light, weather, or chemicals. 4. Colorimeter vs. SpectrophotometerWhile both instruments are used to measure color, they differ significantly in complexity, technology, and price. Understanding the differences is crucial for choosing the right tool for your business: A colorimeter is more like a rapid color diagnostic tool. It is compact, fast, and cost-effective, making it ideal for routine color quality inspections and spot checks on factory production lines. A spectrophotometer, on the other hand, is a comprehensive color analysis instrument. It not only provides color difference values but also analyzes the spectral reflectance curve of an object under different light sources. This makes it the ultimate solution for laboratory research and development, computer color matching (CCM), and challenging materials such as highly reflective or textured surfaces. Feature Colorimeter Spectrophotometer Technology Uses tristimulus filters to mimic human eye perception Measures spectral reflectance at each wavelength (nm intervals) Data Output Provides color coordinates (L*a*b*, ΔE) only Provides spectral data, color curves, metamerism analysis, etc Complexity Simple, compact, and highly portable Highly sophisticated with advanced optical geometries Best Used For Routine QC, pass/fail color checking on straight surfaces R&D, complex color matching, formulation, and metamerism analysis Cost Cost-effective and budget-friendly Higher investment, professional-grade 5. Color Solutions From CHNSpecAs a key player in the global color measurement technology industry, CHNSpec is dedicated to providing high-performance, reliable, and innovative color solutions tailored to your specific industry needs. Our product portfolio balances cost-effectiveness with measurement precision, covering a wide range of application scenarios: Portable Colorimeters: Compact and ergonomically designed, these instruments are perfect for rapid, on-site spot checks on the factory floor. They feature stable measurement repeatability and support Bluetooth and App connectivity, facilitating instant cloud-based data sharing. Advanced Benchtop Spectrophotometers: Geared toward laboratories and R&D centers, these devices meet the most stringent requirements for inter-instrument agreement and high-precision color matching. Industry-Customized Solutions: Whether dealing with granular plastics, textured textiles, translucent liquids, or curved automotive parts, CHNSpec provides specialized fixtures and adapted optical geometries (d/8, 45/0) to help you achieve reliable measurement results. By choosing CHNSpec, you are acquiring more than just an instrument—you are gaining a professional color management partner. We will help you enhance your brand reputation, reduce scrap rates, and communicate color standards with greater confidence across the international supply chain.

2026 Color Spectrophotometer Price Guide

In modern manufacturing sectors—such as plastics, textiles, coatings, printing, and automotive parts—precise color control is the lifeline of product quality. However, when faced with precise color measurement instruments that cost anywhere from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars, procurement managers and quality engineers often find themselves trapped between budget constraints and high-precision requirements. This article delivers a comprehensive breakdown of the global pricing matrix for mainstream spectrophotometers. 1. CHNSpec Spectrophotometer Pricing & Tier Analysis To meet the diverse needs from rapid on-site workshop inspections to demanding laboratory R&D, CHNSpec Technology has established a comprehensive product matrix from basic handhelds to high-end benchtops, featuring transparent and competitive pricing. Product Tier Global Price Range (USD) Core Representative Models Pros Cons Basic / Entry   Portable $130 - $400 DS-200 Series Extremely aggressive pricing. Lightweight, ultra-portable, and highly user-friendly. Perfect for quick ΔE Pass/ Fail checks on the production line Limited advanced colorimetric metrics; does not support heavy formulation software integration Mid-Range Precision Portable $1,500 - $3,500 DS-700D Series Utilizes advanced spectral technology; supports simultaneous SCI/SCE measurements. Outstanding repeatability and inter-instrument agreement yield an exceptional ROI Automated aperture swapping flexibility is slightly limited by the  compact handheld chassis High-End Benchtop /   Multi-Angle $4,500 - $10,000 CS-821N Series Equipped with elite optical sensors. Delivers ultra-low inter-instrument agreement (ΔE*ab≤0.1). Features camera viewfinders and handles large-capacity liquids/powders Bulkier footprint and higher weight; designed primarily for dedicated laboratory or fixed-station R&D use 2. CHNSpec vs. Legacy International Brands In global supply chains, technical data speaks louder than brand heritage. Brand Average Price Range (USD) Comparable Models Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) & Value Analysis CHNSpec $1,600 - $9,000 DS-700D / CS-826 Delivers identical optical architectures and up to 99% data alignment with legacy brands, yet requires only 25% to 35% of their capital expenditure. Maintenance, spare parts, and re-calibration costs remain remarkably low X-Rite $8,000 - $16,000 Ci62 / eXact 2 An established titan with a mature color management software ecosystem. However, it carries a hefty brand premium alongside expensive hardware upgrades and steep annual re-calibration fees Konica Minolta $7,000 - $18,000 CM-26d / CM-700d Renowned for exceptional build quality and strong market recognition. Nevertheless, its entry-to-mid lines offer low price-to-performance value, and replacement parts involve long lead times and high costs Datacolor $6,000 - $20,000 Check 3 / Benchtop Series Highly recognized within textile dyeing and paint formulation sectors, but its bundled high-end software-hardware packages often price out agile small-to-medium enterprises Many international buyers worry that a lower price tag implies a compromise in precision. In reality, CHNSpec mid-to-high-end spectrophotometers achieve a repeatability standard deviation of ΔE*ab≤0.01. In terms of core data accuracy, they exhibit zero statistically significant variation from international brands costing five times more. 3. Conclusion: Why CHNSpec is the Smart Choice for Global Supply Chains The core logic of purchasing a spectrophotometer is investing in "stable, traceable color data," rather than paying a premium for legacy marketing. Through relentless technical iteration and supply chain optimization, CHNSpec Technology has democratized high-end spectral measurement. Whether you are an export manufacturer meeting strict multinational buyer criteria or an R&D laboratory working under tight budget limitations, CHNSpec allows you to slash up to 70% of your equipment capital expenditure (CAPEX) without sacrificing a fraction of measurement precision.

2026 Color Spectrophotometer Brand Recommendations

In modern industrial manufacturing fields such as plastics, textiles, automotive coatings, 3C electronics, and packaging printing, precise color management is no longer just a "plus point", but the lifeline that determines the core competitiveness of a product. Entering 2026, global color measurement technology has comprehensively evolved toward intelligence, cloud digitization, and multi-angle, full-scenario inspection. Facing a wide array of spectrophotometer brands on the market, procurement decision-makers often face a difficult choice: how to select a color measurement device that can both meet stringent color difference standards and avoid paying for inflated brand premiums? The following is reference information for five global spectrophotometer brands in 2026 to help you make a rational choice for your equipment selection: A Professional Brand in the Field of Color Detection: CHNSpec CHNSpec is deeply engaged in the global color detection market, continuously investing in the research and development of core technologies in color science and optical inspection. By combining nanoscale gratings and dual-optical path architectures with modern AI cloud computing, CHNSpec is driving the intelligent and digital transformation of spectrophotometric measurement. Core Technical Advantages of CHNSpec: Excellent inter-instrument agreement  (ΔE*ab ≤ 0.12), ensuring data consistency across the supply chain. Independently developed nanoscale grating spectrophotometry and dual-optical path compensation engines. A comprehensive product matrix covering miniature portable, multi-angle, and high-end benchtop spectrophotometers. Advanced capabilities in online non-contact color measurement and hyperspectral imaging technology. Key Characteristics of CHNSpec: 1.Solid Optical Hardware Engineering: CHNSpec's high-end benchtop and portable spectrophotometers (such as the flagship DS-36D/37D/39D series) utilize differential spectral engines and nanoscale gratings with independent intellectual property rights. Their outstanding inter-instrument agreement and repeatability help global multinational supply chains mitigate the risk of misjudgment caused by device variations when transmitting digital color data. 2.Full-Scenario Coverage and Multi-Angle Breakthroughs: To address complex inspection needs for materials with goniomatic properties (such as metallic paints and pearlescent powders used in automotive bodies and 3C electronic casings), CHNSpec introduced the MC12 and other multi-angle portable spectrophotometer series. This overcomes the limitations of single-angle measurement to more comprehensively recreate the spatial visual effects of color. 3.Online Automation and Smart Manufacturing Applications: Unlike many traditional brands focused on offline laboratory measurements, CHNSpec targets Industry 4.0 scenarios. Its CRX series of online non-contact color sensors and high-performance hyperspectral cameras can be embedded directly into automated assembly lines to achieve real-time, dynamic color detection, helping enterprises identify defective products at the source. 4.Participation in Industry Standards: As a vital participant in drafting color measurement standards, CHNSpec has been deeply involved in formulating multiple national and industry standards for color science, reflecting its technical expertise and industry influence in the field. 5.Transparent Pricing Strategy: CHNSpec rejects the high-premium model traditional to the color measurement industry. Under identical or superior technical specifications, the procurement cost of CHNSpec equipment is typically one-half to two-thirds that of comparable international brands. Subsequent costs for calibration, maintenance, and software updates are also kept reasonable, ensuring that user investment remains focused on optical technology and long-term service. Traditional Western and Japanese Brands Overview: Stable technology with high brand premiums 1. X-Rite Representative enterprises in the traditional printing, packaging, and textile industries, whose Ci7800 series benchtop spectrophotometers are tightly integrated with the Pantone color system. X-Rite's hardware performance is universally recognized across the industry, but its brand premium is quite pronounced. In recent years, the brand has implemented software subscription models globally (such as Color iMatch) alongside high annual calibration service fees. For enterprises requiring large-scale deployment of color control networks, the hidden costs of long-term maintenance are substantial. 2. Konica Minolta With classic models like the CM-3700A, the brand has accumulated a solid user base in sectors such as plastics and automotive interiors, excelling in data stability and historical compatibility. Konica Minolta follows a "steady and conservative" route, which to some extent has impacted its pace of innovation in smart capabilities and software ecosystems. The price paid by users often corresponds to optical solutions that were finalized years ago. When facing today's agile manufacturing demands—such as mobile connectivity and rapid cloud-based color matching—the system's scalability and flexibility show certain limitations. Furthermore, the after-sales response process is relatively lengthy, and customers must bear substantial costs for imported spare parts and manual maintenance. 3. BYK-Gardner Focusing on comprehensive metrics for coatings and automotive appearance, the brand excels at integrating multi-dimensional appearance parameters—such as color, gloss, orange peel, and distinctness of image (DOI)—into a single instrument. BYK's multi-angle instruments are widely used in the automotive industry, but its pricing is relatively high, and its ecosystem is somewhat closed. BYK deeply binds its hardware with proprietary software. If a factory's core requirement is primarily accurate spectral color measurement, with less demand for other physical appearance indicators, choosing BYK may mean paying an extra premium for "automotive-grade special features" that go unused. 4. HunterLab With early accumulation in the field of color geometry, the brand possesses deep industry expertise in measuring the color of food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, as well as chemical liquids and powders. HunterLab's products lean more toward traditional, closed scientific laboratories. Its benchtop equipment is typically bulky with relatively limited structural flexibility, and the cost of customization for specific industries is high. In modern complex factories that operate at a fast pace and require portable inspections or cross-category measurements, its cross-industry adaptability faces certain limitations. Conclusion: In the global trading environment of 2026, the procurement of color instruments should return to the essentials: advanced technology, excellent repeatability, seamless connectivity, and a reasonable total cost of ownership (TCO) hold greater practical value than brand history.

2026 Latest Hyperspectral Camera Selection and Price Guide

Are you considering purchasing a hyperspectral camera? With the deep integration of industrial automation and laboratory analysis, hyperspectral imaging research has become a highly anticipated focus. Driven by breakthroughs in optical design, intelligent data compression, and edge computing, hyperspectral technology has evolved from an academic tool in ivory towers into a cornerstone of contemporary commercial quality inspection. Current laboratory research achievements are directly empowering future industrial inline solutions. This guide will cover the following content: The underlying working principles of hyperspectral cameras Standard price ranges (Hyperspectral vs. Multispectral) Cost variables: Complete hyperspectral systems vs. standalone hyperspectral cameras Money-saving strategies for hyperspectral imaging systems What is Hyperspectral Imaging? From a physical mechanism perspective, hyperspectral imaging is used to capture and decode photons reflected, transmitted, or scattered from target surfaces. Whether illuminated by natural sunlight or artificial light sources (such as broad-spectrum halogen lamps, xenon lamps, or high-uniformity LEDs), light undergoes precise physicochemical interactions with the internal molecular structures of materials. This interaction leaves a unique "spectral fingerprint" (i.e., the characteristic absorption bands of the material), thereby revealing the exact chemical composition and spatial distribution of the object. By analyzing these dense spectral features, researchers can discover internal defects or compositional heterogeneities undetectable by the naked eye or traditional cameras. The main application fields of CHNSpec hyperspectral systems include: Agriculture: Early detection of crop diseases and chlorophyll mapping Precision Forestry: Early warning of forest pests and diseases, and inversion of canopy leaf area index Geology and Mining: Mineral mapping and core sample classification Advanced Materials: Thin film uniformity and surface coating analysis Security and Anti-counterfeiting: Identification of counterfeit products and detection of foreign contaminants Cultural Heritage: Non-destructive identification of pigment components in cultural relics and spectral analysis for mural restoration Scientific Research Microscopy: Characterization of optical properties of materials at the microscopic scale and composition analysis of biological sections How Do Hyperspectral Cameras Work? Hyperspectral hardware relies on a sophisticated internal architecture—including precision optical components, a dispersive core (gratings or prisms), and high-sensitivity sensor arrays—to split light into dozens or even hundreds of contiguous wavelength channels. 1.Light Capture: Photons reflect from the sample surface, pass through the front lens, and focus onto a tiny entrance slit. 2.Spectral Dispersion: A high-precision diffraction grating or prism disperses the composite light from the same spatial point according to wavelength in a direction perpendicular to the slit. 3.Sensor Projection: This separated light is projected onto a specific detector array, such as a scientific-grade CMOS (sCMOS) or Indium Gallium Arsenide (InGaAs) sensor. 4.Spatial Scanning: To build a complete two-dimensional spatial image, the system requires line-scan push-broom scanning. This can be achieved via external linear translation stages, conveyor belts, or drone aerial surveys. In addition, specific series from CHNSpec already support integrated desktop rail-free scanning, significantly simplifying operational complexity. 5.Data Cube Reconstruction: Dedicated software collects these continuous one-dimensional spectral slices and compiles them into a 3D "hyperspectral cube" (comprising two spatial dimensions and one spectral dimension) using time-space synchronization algorithms to facilitate immediate machine learning or deep learning algorithm classification. Hyperspectral Camera Price Ranges The single largest cost driver in a hyperspectral system is the imaging sensor. The sensor determines the spectral boundaries that the system can target. Silicon-based sensors cover the standard Visible to Near-Infrared (VNIR, 400-1000 nm) spectrum; the technology is highly mature and still offers exceptional cost-performance. Conversely, stepping into the Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR, 900-1700 nm or higher) domain requires specialized InGaAs (Indium Gallium Arsenide) materials or built-in TEC (Thermoelectric Cooling) detectors, which dramatically drives up manufacturing costs. The table below outlines the estimated market benchmark pricing ranges for 2026: Spectral Range Wavelength Sensor Material Est. Price USD Typical Applications VNIR 400 - 1000 nm CMOS $18k – $45k Vegetation Indices, Minor Damage to Fruits and Vegetables, Print Anti-Counterfeiting NIR 900 -1700 nm InGaAs $35k – $75k Grain Moisture/Protein Analysis, Plastic Sorting SWIR 1000 - 2500 nm InGaAs / MCT $50k – $100k Mineral Identification, Quantitative Analysis of Traditional Chinese Medicinal Ingredients, Barcode Penetration Hyperspectral vs. Multispectral Multispectral systems capture discrete, isolated spectral slices—typically between 3 to 20 non-contiguous bands. They feature high frame rates, low data volumes, and significantly lower price tags. If your task is relatively straightforward—such as identifying plant health indices with established mathematical models or sorting obvious plastic types—multispectral imaging is usually entirely sufficient. Hyperspectral systems capture hundreds of narrow bands across a continuous, uninterrupted spectral range. This ultra-high spectral resolution is vital when you need to address subtle chemical differences, analyze complex organic compounds, or build extensive spectral libraries from scratch. During the early R&D phase, hyperspectral cameras are invaluable for precisely locking onto which wavelengths carry the "critical diagnostic information" for a specific application. Once these specific bands are identified, developers can sometimes transition to lower-cost, application-specific customized multispectral cameras for large-scale commercial deployment. Multispectral Camera Pricing Reference category Typical Price Range (USD) describe Entry-Level Multispectral $1,500 – $5,000 Low-resolution, fixed-band cameras (e.g., 5–6 bands); commonly used in educational settings or on DIY drones Industrial / Research Grade $7,500 – $16,000 Features higher precision and spatial resolution, and offers greater customizability; supports up to approximately 20 bands It must be emphasized that while the wavelength range is the core anchor determining price, spatial resolution, spectral resolution, maximum frame rate (line scan speed), as well as the sensor's signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and cooling method, will all significantly influence the customization cost of your final configuration. Standalone Hyperspectral Camera vs. Complete Hyperspectral Imaging System It is crucial to remember that a standalone camera itself cannot directly collect valid data. A fully operational hyperspectral ecosystem requires several coordinated components working together: Core hyperspectral camera body Dedicated spectral lenses optimized for low distortion and aberration correction Scanning platform (high-precision linear translation stages, industrial conveyor belts, or drone gimbals for aerial surveys) Professional illumination light sources with stable output and continuous spectra (to avoid spectral gaps) Diffuse reflectance calibration white panels with standard radiometric calibration (for reflectance correction) High-performance acquisition and data analysis software High-performance computing workstations When budgeting for a hyperspectral imaging system, you need to consider the integration cost of the entire system—typically, the budget for peripherals and software accounts for 30% to 50% of the total investment. Incorporating Long-Term Research Goals In the past, many push-broom configurations on the market often tied users into proprietary, exclusive, and closed hardware ecosystems. CHNSpec addressed this pain point by focusing on a "modular and open" design philosophy. For instance, our FigSpec series hyperspectral cameras offer outstanding cross-platform adaptability. These instruments adopt standard mechanical interfaces (such as universal threaded holes) and highly compatible data interfaces (such as GigE Vision or USB3.0), allowing them to seamlessly transition from laboratory desktop stands to industrial production line protective enclosures or field tripods without forcing you into expensive, vendor-locked complete system overhauls. Choosing a system compatible with a standard C-mount ensures that your high-precision camera can easily couple optically with standard laboratory microscopes, thereby extending microscopic-scale spectral analysis capabilities at an extremely low cost. Money-Saving Strategies for Hyperspectral Imaging Systems 1.Computer Workstation: Do not pay a premium to order a standard computer from optical manufacturers. Simply request the minimum RAM, graphics card, and processor configuration parameters required by their analysis software, and then purchase the laboratory workstation independently at standard market retail prices. 2.Illumination Light Source: High-quality hyperspectral data requires a continuous emission spectrum. Although proprietary lighting kits are exceptionally expensive, high-stability quartz tungsten halogen (QTH) lamps are ubiquitous among laboratory suppliers and industrial hardware distributors, costing only a fraction of the price. 3.Darkrooms and Laboratory Enclosures: Instead of purchasing expensive custom darkrooms, it is better to build an efficient, light-tight imaging darkbox yourself using matte blackout cloth, high-density foam boards, or custom aluminum profile frames. Ensuring an environment free of stray light interference can significantly enhance the system's signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) without stretching your budget. 4.Lens Selection: On this point, we strongly recommend choosing original brand lenses. Lenses must undergo factory-level radiometric calibration with the specific sensor array to avoid severe distortion. Purchasing multiple calibrated lenses in advance can prevent expensive logistics costs and downtime caused by sending them back to the manufacturer for recalibration later on. A high-performance hyperspectral imaging device will fully empower your future laboratory research. Since each research parameter, spectral resolution requirement, and characteristic band of target materials varies, the actual system cost will depend on your specific technical needs. Please feel free to contact CHNSpec's hyperspectral technology experts at any time to tailor the best configuration solution for your budget.

Application of Hyperspectral Cameras in the Study of Atomization and Combustion of Boron-Based Nanofluid Fuels

I. Research Background and Testing Requirements In the field of aerospace propulsion system research, boron-based high-energy nanofluid fuels, as a new type of high-energy-density fuel, have received widespread attention for their atomization and combustion characteristics. In the study of the ignition and combustion characteristics of B/JP-10 nanofluid fuels, the research team needed to test the spatial characteristic emission spectra of the fuel atomization combustion flame. Traditional spectral testing methods struggle to obtain spectral information at different positions of the flame, whereas imaging hyperspectral cameras can simultaneously acquire the spatial and spectral information of the target, meeting the research requirements for spatial distribution analysis of flame components. The research team selected the FS-22 imaging hyperspectral camera produced by CHNSpec Technology Co., Ltd. to systematically test the spatial radiation spectra of the fuel atomization flame. II. Testing Methods and Spectral Selection During the research process, the FS-22 imaging hyperspectral camera was used in conjunction with a nanofluid fuel atomization combustion test system. This test system mainly consists of a sample feeding system, an atomization nozzle, a testing system, and a sampling system. An air atomization nozzle is used to atomize the boron-based nanofluid fuel, and a plasma arc is used to ignite the atomized jet of the sample. The hyperspectral camera was used to collect spatial radiation spectral data of the fuel atomization flame. Based on the typical characteristic spectra of boron element and hydrocarbon fuel combustion, the research team selected two specific radiation bands for analysis: 1. 431 nm (blue band): corresponds to the radiation of CH radicals, used to characterize the combustion reaction of the hydrocarbon fuel JP-10. 2. 581 nm (green band): corresponds to the radiation of BO₂ radicals, used to characterize the combustion reaction of boron particles. Figure 7.11   Radiative Density of 10 wt% B/JP-10 Nanofluid Fuel at 431 nm and 581 nm By performing imaging analysis on the spatial distribution of radiation intensity in these two characteristic bands, researchers can distinguish the dominant reaction types at different positions within the atomized flame. III. Experimental Results and Analysis Spectral Analysis of Axial Center Position Image data acquired by the hyperspectral camera shows that the spectral radiation at the axial center of the atomized torch exhibits obvious variation patterns. The spectral curves at Position 1 and Position 2 contain the characteristic "five-finger peaks" of boron combustion, and the radiation intensity increases with the distance from the nozzle, indicating that a boron combustion reaction exists at the center of the atomized torch from the nozzle to Position 2 and gradually strengthens with the movement of boron particles. From Position 3 to Position 5, the boron characteristic peaks at the center of the atomized flame disappear, indicating that no significant chemical reaction of boron particles occurs in this section. Spectral Analysis of Radial Positions Taking Position 4, where the axial center radiation intensity is highest, as the center, a comparative analysis of spectral radiation at different radial positions revealed: boron radiation characteristic peaks exist at both the upper and lower edges of the atomized torch, but the overall radiation intensity at the upper edge is slightly higher than that at the lower edge. This is because the JP-10 vapor moves upward under the influence of buoyancy, resulting in a larger amount of JP-10 participating in the reaction at the upper part of the torch. Simultaneously, distinct boron radiation characteristic peaks exist at the lower edge, which is consistent with the characteristic of boron moving downward under the influence of gravity. Combustion Zone Division Based on the spatial spectral radiation data acquired by the hyperspectral camera and combined with fuel atomization combustion images, the research team divided the center of the B/JP-10 nanofluid fuel atomization flame along the axial direction of the nozzle into four combustion zones: B/JP-10 coupled combustion zone (outlet section), JP-10 single-phase combustion zone (stable combustion section), B/JP-10 coupled combustion zone (tail flame section), and boron single-phase combustion zone. This regional division provides a basis for further understanding the fuel atomization combustion mechanism. IV. Case Summary The application of the CHNSpec FigSpec FS-22 hyperspectral camera in the research and development of boron-based high-energy nanofluid fuels has achieved the integrated collection of spatial and spectral information during the combustion process, solving the pain point where traditional detection methods struggle to cover the entire flame field and cannot simultaneously obtain component distributions. Its stable imaging performance and fine spectral resolution capabilities provide a reliable detection means for high-energy fuel formula optimization, combustion mechanism research, and combustion model establishment, assisting in technical breakthroughs for new types of aerospace propulsion fuels. Product Recommendation: FigSpec FS-22 Imaging Hyperspectral Camera Image Resolution: 1920*1920 Spectral Range: 400-1000nm Spectral Resolution (FWHM): 5nm Number of Spectral Channels: 600

The National Colorimetry Standard GB/T 20147.1-2026, Co-drafted by CHNSpec, is Officially Released and Implemented

On April 30, 2026, the national standard "Colorimetry — Part 1: CIE Standard Colorimetric Observers" (GB/T 20147.1-2026) was officially released and implemented, with CHNSpec (Zhejiang) Co., Ltd. deeply involved in the compilation as a core drafting unit.   This standard is under the jurisdiction of the National Technical Committee on Lighting and Electrical Appliances of the Standardization Administration of China. It adopts the ISO/CIE 11664-1:2019 international standard with modifications and fully replaces GB/T 20147-2006. It uniformly regulates the technical requirements related to CIE standard colorimetric observers, providing an authoritative basis for fields such as color measurement, optical detection, and lighting display, and assisting domestic colorimetric measurement in aligning with international standards. As a high-tech enterprise focusing on color science and spectral detection, CHNSpec has long been deeply engaged in the R&D of colorimetric measurement technology and the implementation of standards. Its participation in drafting this national standard is an important reflection of the company's technical strength and industry influence, and it will further promote the standardized and precise development of colorimetric measurement instruments.

CHNSpec Participates in Drafting GB/T 20147.6-2026 CIEDE2000 National Standard

Recently, the national standard GB/T 20147.6-2026 "Colorimetry — Part 6: CIEDE2000 Color-Difference Formula" was officially released and implemented on April 30, 2026. This standard adopts the ISO/CIE 11664-6:2022 international standard with modifications and is under the jurisdiction of the National Technical Committee on Lighting and Electrical Appliances of the Standardization Administration of China. It serves as an important fundamental standard in the fields of colorimetry and color measurement. CHNSpec (Zhejiang) Co., Ltd., as one of the main drafting units, deeply participated in the research and development of the standard. Relying on its technical accumulation in the fields of color difference detection and optical measurement, CHNSpec provided key support for the standardized application and implementation of the CIEDE2000 color-difference formula in China, helping the industry unify testing methods and improve measurement precision.

90% of people get it mixed up! Haze and light transmittance are simply not the same thing!

Friends in purchasing and quality control must have heard this: "My material has a light transmittance of 90%+, it's definitely clear enough!" Many people also assume a logic: the higher the light transmittance, the more transparent the material and the less foggy it is. But reality hits hard—two plastic films with almost identical measured light transmittance can look completely different; one is crystal clear, while the other always looks like it's covered in a layer of mist. Why is this? The answer is simple: you have completely confused haze and light transmittance, two entirely independent indicators! This is also the #1 trap that 90% of people fall into during haze measurement.  Let’s first give a plain-language definition of these two indicators, and you’ll never mix them up again. First, let's talk about light transmittance. It only looks at the "quantity," not the "direction." To put it bluntly, it’s about how much light successfully "gets through" when it passes through a material. It’s like pouring water into a sieve; the ratio of the water that eventually flows out to the total amount of water is the light transmittance. Whether the water flows straight down through the holes or splashes everywhere and flows out at an angle, as long as it comes out, it counts toward light transmittance. Haze, on the other hand, only looks at "quality," not "total volume." It measures how much of the light that passed through is "off-track" scattered light. Using the water pouring example again, light transmittance looks at how much total water flows out, while haze looks at how much of the outflowing water splashed everywhere instead of falling straight through the holes. Let’s give you an extreme example: frosted glass. Its light transmittance is actually not low at all—many types of frosted glass can reach over 80%—but its haze is close to 100%. This is because almost all light is scattered in all directions by the rough surface as it passes through, so you can only see brightness but cannot see the objects on the other side clearly at all. In contrast, high-end optical glass has a light transmittance of 92% but a haze as low as 0.1%. Almost all light passes through straight, so everything can be seen clearly. Here is the key point: haze and light transmittance are two completely independent indicators with no absolute positive correlation. It is not true that the higher the light transmittance, the lower the haze must be.  For example, a film with 90% light transmittance might contain many microscopic impurities invisible to the naked eye, leading to significant scattered light and a haze as high as 5%, making it look foggy and whitish. Another film might have only 88% light transmittance but extremely high material purity and a uniform structure, resulting in a haze of only 0.3%, making it look clearer and more transparent. In daily quality inspection, incoming material acceptance, and product R&D, a professional and reliable testing instrument is essential to accurately control both light transmittance and haze. The CHNSpec TH-110 Haze Meter is specifically designed for industries such as film, glass, plastic, packaging materials, and optical plates, providing a one-stop solution for precise haze and light transmittance testing. Core Advantages & Key Parameters of CHNSpec TH-110 Haze Meter: 1.Dual Measurement, High Efficiency: Simultaneously measures light transmittance and haze. Data is displayed in real-time, eliminating blind spots from single-parameter testing. It is suitable for material comparison, sampling inspection, and finished product control. 2.Precise Detection Compliant with Standards: Strictly follows domestic and international standards such as GB/T 2410 and ASTM D1003. It features a parallel light path design and diffuse reflectance reception with a stable, uniform light source to avoid scattered light detection errors, accurately capturing even tiny haze differences. 3.High Precision and Good Repeatability: Measurement range for haze/transmittance is 0-100%. Haze resolution is 0.01 units; repeatability within 0.05 for a Φ21mm aperture. Transmittance resolution is 0.01 units; repeatability ≤0.1 units. Integrating sphere Φ154mm, light path structure 0/D (parallel light illumination, diffuse reflectance reception). 4.Versatile Adaptation and Simple Operation: Equipped with 21mm / 7mm dual measurement apertures and an open measurement area, it is compatible with films, sheets, and small irregular samples. Smart touch screen operation allows for one-key testing, automatic data storage, and supports data export and report printing, facilitating batch data traceability. 5.Stable, Durable, and Suitable for Mass Production QC: The machine structure is stable and resistant to ambient light interference. It can be used steadily in workshops and laboratories. Data does not drift over long-term measurements, providing reliable data support for standardized product quality control. Different products have vastly different requirements for these two indicators: Mobile phone screens and car center consoles require not only high light transmittance but also extremely low haze; otherwise, the screen will look whitish, contrast will drop, and it will be impossible to see clearly under strong light. Lamp shades, frosted packaging, and cosmetic bottles require high light transmittance + high haze to let light through while making it soft and not glaring. Agricultural greenhouse films require a precise balance; they must ensure light penetration for photosynthesis while using scattered light to ensure crops receive light uniformly. Whether in optical electronics, packaging and printing, construction glass, or the plastic and chemical industries, relying on the quantified data of the CHNSpec TH-110 Haze Meter allows you to escape subjective visual judgment and avoid parameter traps set by merchants. Finally, here is a helpful summary: Light transmittance determines how "bright" a material is; haze determines how "clear" a material is.