What is the performance of thermopiles along the infrared range of the spectrum?
As far as I know, thermopiles can sense heat by absorbing the light generated in the IR thanks to the thermoelectric effects. In my experimental setting, I want to sense the heat generated on a surface after being irradiated by a laser at a certain wavelength. However, I am not certain of which wavelengths can I use for sensing using a thermopile. Would a NIR laser affect its performance?
you could use any laser wavelength, however, to achieve good laser light detection sensitivity with the thermocouple it would help to thermally bond the thermocouple junction to a small piece of black anodized aluminum (with laser hitting anodized surface) or or piece of graphite. Alternatively you could coat the thermocouple with paint containing carbon-black pigment.
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