Calculation and optimisation of the maximum uncertainty in infrared temperature measurements taken in conditions of high uncertainty in the emissivity and environment radiation values

This paper develops a method that enables the most suitable range of wavelengths to be ascertained in which to take infrared temperature measurements of surfaces in the open air in conditions in which high uncertainty exists in the environmental radiation and emissivity values. The optimisation criterion adopted for the error is that of achieving the narrowest possible band of maximum uncertainty. The results demonstrate that it is possible to cancel out the solar radiation contribution to the maximum uncertainty present in the measurement whilst still working in short wavelengths where this radiation is very intense and, therefore, optimise the band of uncertainty produced by emissivity and environment radiation.