Measuring thermal energy of surface contaminants

[Jake Platt]

Using a heat source to increase the temperature of an agricultural commodity like corn, could a thermal camera detect temperature differentials over time as the commodity cools, versus localized surface contaminants such as mold or fungus? I'm thinking yes in theory but the differences might be imperceptibly small and thus undetectable by a thermal camera (such as flir for example).

 

[Bobbywhy]

The FLIR SC7000 Series specification says:

“High Sensitivity: up to 20 mK
20 mk thermal sensitivity captures the finest image details and temperature difference information.”
http://www.flir.com/cs/emea/en/view/?id=42576

So, it would seem that it could easily discriminate a “clean” kernel of corn, for instance, from one covered with mold or fungus.
I suggest you contact the manufacturer with your question.