Knowledge Base
30. Oct 2025
What Is Pink Cocaine (Tusi)? The Hidden Dangers
The Rise of Pink Cocaine Pink cocaine, a synthetic designer drug, has recently attracted media attention and scientific attention, especially when it comes to its associated dangers. However, the reality is that this drug is neither new nor is it cocaine; it contains a blend of various existing substances and
22. Jul 2025
Rapid Detection and Quantification of Falsified Viagra
Using Cloud-Based Portable NIR Technology and Machine Learning Reference: Hervé Rais, Pierre Esseiva, Olivier Delémont, Cédric Schelling, Stefan Stanojevic, Serge Rudaz, Florentin Coppey, Rapid detection and quantification of falsified Viagra using cloud-based portable NIR technology and machine learning, Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis, Volume 263, 2025, 116940, ISSN 0731-7085, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpba.2025.116940.
15. Jul 2025
Measuring Olives and Olive Oil on the spot
Over the past few months, we have spent a lot of time talking with olive oil producers to really understand what they are facing. Many shared the same concerns: how to improve their production processes, how to better assess the quality of their olives and how to make sure farmers
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Latest Articles
Discover NIRLAB’s latest insights and innovations in near-infrared (NIR) technology.
19. Mar 2026
How Portable NIR and Advanced Modeling Are Reshaping Quality and Trust in the Tobacco Industry
When Products Evolve Faster Than Traditional Control Traditional tobacco has always been complex. Leaf origin, curing, fermentation, blending – variability is intrinsic to the material itself. But next-generation products, particularly nicotine pouches, have introduced a different kind of complexity. These products evolve continuously: Production, however, does not slow down for experimentation.
04. Mar 2026
How Drug Analysis Delays Affect Officer Morale
Introduction: The Growing Problem of Case Delays Drug case processing delays are often caused by capacity constraints during investigations, forensic testing, and court proceedings. These delays slow the progression from arrest to final disposition, creating challenges for law enforcement and the justice system. Research indicates that increasing submission volumes have
23. Feb 2026
Structured Science, Expressed Clearly: The NIRLAB Rebranding
In advanced analytical technology, sophistication should not feel complicated. The most powerful systems are those that transform complex science into intuitive experience. This belief has always guided NIRLAB — and it is now reflected in our renewed brand identity. As a Swiss-based spectral solutions company, we operate at the intersection
Academic Papers
Discover all academic papers mentioning NIRLAB’s near-infrared (NIR) technology.
14. Nov 2025
Critical On-Site Detection of Explosive Precursors
Homemade explosives (HMEs) are attractive to criminals and terrorists due to accessible online recipes, readily available equipment, and the ease of obtaining precursor materials. To counter this, EU Regulation 2019/1148 restricts access to high concentrations of “Restricted Precursors” and monitors sales of “Reportable Explosives Precursors”. Classification as an explosive precursor
22. Jul 2025
Rapid Detection and Quantification of Falsified Viagra
Using Cloud-Based Portable NIR Technology and Machine Learning Reference: Hervé Rais, Pierre Esseiva, Olivier Delémont, Cédric Schelling, Stefan Stanojevic, Serge Rudaz, Florentin Coppey, Rapid detection and quantification of falsified Viagra using cloud-based portable NIR technology and machine learning, Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis, Volume 263, 2025, 116940, ISSN 0731-7085, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpba.2025.116940.
08. Aug 2024
Use of Portable NIR Technology for Drug analysis in Australia
The challenge of efficiently and accurately analyzing illicit drugs remains significant in Australia due to the high volume of drugs trafficked within the country. A recent study explores the potential of Near-Infrared (NIR) spectroscopy combined with machine learning.1 Hence, by using NIRLAB’s solution to provide rapid and accurate drug identification
10. May 2024
Revolutionizing Forensic Analysis with Ultra-Portable NIR Technology
In the fast-paced world of forensic science, the quest for rapid and reliable drug testing solutions has led to significant innovations. One such breakthrough, outlined in a detailed study “Providing illicit drugs results in five seconds using ultra-portable NIR technology: An opportunity for forensic laboratories to cope with the trend
08. May 2024
How Portable NIR Technology is Revolutionizing Forensic Cannabis Analysis
In the swiftly evolving field of forensic science, the demand for portable and efficient solutions has grown exponentially, particularly in the realm of drug analysis. Recent advancements, such as the integration of handheld devices like NIRLAB’s NIRLight with cloud-based systems, are marking a transformative era in real-time forensic applications. Portable
03. May 2024
The Impact of Portable NIR Devices in Forensic Drug Analysis
Facing the problem of backlogs in forensic laboratories, the field of illicit drugs analyses has recently seen the development of different types of portable devices. Their main purpose is to be used directly by the police in order to reduce the number of specimens that are sent to the laboratories.
Science
Discover NIRLAB’s latest scientific articles and all about near-infrared technology.
18. Feb 2026
Understanding Regression: Theory to Real-World Use
When we talk about regression problems, we’re asking a model: “How much of this property is present?” Unlike classification, which assigns items to categories, regression predicts continuous values, such as fat in olives, moisture in meat, or the concentration of an active ingredient in a medicine. At NIRLAB, predictions are
14. Nov 2025
Critical On-Site Detection of Explosive Precursors
Homemade explosives (HMEs) are attractive to criminals and terrorists due to accessible online recipes, readily available equipment, and the ease of obtaining precursor materials. To counter this, EU Regulation 2019/1148 restricts access to high concentrations of “Restricted Precursors” and monitors sales of “Reportable Explosives Precursors”. Classification as an explosive precursor
02. Oct 2025
Understanding Classification Problems: Theory to Real-World applications with NIRLAB
When we talk about classification problems, we’re essentially asking a model to decide: “Which group does this item belong to?” Unlike prediction problems that estimate continuous values, classification focuses on discrete categories, such as whether a product is genuine or counterfeit, or whether a plant is ready to harvest or
04. Nov 2024
How NIR Spectroscopy and Machine Learning are Transforming Material Analysis Across Industries
Introduction In today’s fast-paced industrial landscape, the demand for efficient and accurate material analysis is greater than ever. Industries such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and public safety require reliable, real-time data to ensure quality, safety, and performance. Traditional lab testing is being replaced by Near-Infrared (NIR) Spectroscopy, a technology enhanced by
18. Mar 2024
The Hidden Dangers: Cutting Agents in Cocaine
Following our insightful exploration in “Cocaine Analysis – Challenges and Opportunities“, we delve deeper into a critical aspect that plays a pivotal role in the global cocaine trade: the cutting agents. These substances, mixed with cocaine to increase volume, alter potency, or both, significantly impact the drug’s purity, efficacy, and
11. Mar 2024
Heroin Analysis – Challenges and Opportunities
Heroin, a substance with a complex legal and health-related history, requires sophisticated methods for accurate analysis. This article delves into the science of heroin, the significance of heroin analysis, the technological superiority of NIRLAB for the identification and quantification of Heroin, and its implications for the future. The Science of
26. Feb 2024
Molecular Vibrations with NIR: A Detailed Exploration
Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIR) is a fascinating and versatile analytical technique widely used in various scientific and industrial fields. Its applications range from pharmaceuticals to agriculture, materials science to food quality assessment. NIR’s ability to offer quick, non-destructive chemical analysis makes it an invaluable tool in many sectors. In this blog,
19. Feb 2024
NIR vs. Ultraviolet Spectroscopy: Basics & Applications
In the expansive world of spectroscopic analysis, Near-Infrared (NIR) and Ultraviolet (UV) Spectroscopy emerge as two distinct yet fundamental techniques. Both play a pivotal role in material analysis, offering unique insights into the molecular makeup of various substances. In this article, we will explore the basics of NIR and UV
Getting started
How To Guidelines’ for your NIR device with NIRLAB’s getting started section. Explore expert tips for optimal usage.
04. Nov 2024
How NIR Spectroscopy and Machine Learning are Transforming Material Analysis Across Industries
Introduction In today’s fast-paced industrial landscape, the demand for efficient and accurate material analysis is greater than ever. Industries such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and public safety require reliable, real-time data to ensure quality, safety, and performance. Traditional lab testing is being replaced by Near-Infrared (NIR) Spectroscopy, a technology enhanced by
22. Apr 2024
Wie THC & CBD Analysen von NIRLAB Cannabis-Anbauvereinigungen bzw. Cannabis Social Clubs in Deutschland unterstützen kann
Mit der Legalisierung von Cannabis am 1. April 2024 hat Deutschland ein neues Kapitel in seiner Drogenpolitik aufgeschlagen, das einen wachsenden Trend in Europa hin zu liberaleren Ansätzen im Umgang mit Cannabis widerspiegelt. Diese politische Veränderung zielt nicht nur darauf ab, die mit dem Drogenhandel verbundene Kriminalität zu reduzieren, sondern
15. Apr 2024
NIRLAB’s Role in Supporting Cannabis Social Clubs (Anbauvereinigung) in Germany
With the legalization of cannabis on April 1st 2024 in Germany, the country embarked on a new chapter in its drug policy, mirroring a growing trend in Europe toward more liberal approaches to cannabis use and distribution. This policy shift not only aims to reduce crime related to drug trafficking
04. Mar 2024
Textile Quality Assurance: Practical Guide for NIR
The integration of NIRLAB’s portable NIR spectrometer heralds a significant leap in textile manufacturing. This by aligning the precision of Near-Infrared (NIR) spectroscopy with the complex demands of textile quality assurance. This breakthrough enhances the efficiency and accuracy of fiber identification, moisture content analysis, and verification of chemical finishes. Hence,
23. Feb 2024
Analyzing the NIR Spectroscopy Data for Substance Analysis
Welcome to an in-depth journey through the cutting-edge world of Near-Infrared (NIR) Spectroscopy as applied by NIRLAB, a leader in forensic and substance analysis technology. Today, we’re delving into a spectrum that might seem like a mere collection of peaks and troughs to the uninitiated but reveals a story of
21. Feb 2024
Sugar Cane Quality Control: A Comprehensive Guide
Sugar cane is a cornerstone of the global agricultural economy, thriving amid challenges such as environmental changes and market volatility. Reliable quality control is crucial in this context. Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIR) emerges as a cutting-edge solution, transforming the landscape of agricultural analytics. At the forefront of this technological advancement is
07. Feb 2024
Expert Tips for Accurate NIRLAB Spectrometer Analysis
In the dynamic field of substance analysis, NIRLAB distinguishes itself as a tool of remarkable versatility, with applications extending well beyond the scope of narcotics detection. This state-of-the-art instrument has become essential in various sectors, including harm reduction, cannabis analysis, polymer identification, and law enforcement operations. Additionally, to dive deeper
01. Feb 2024
Revolutionizing Harm Reduction: NIRLAB’s Innovative NIR Spectroscopy in Action
In 2022, the canton of Vaud in Switzerland embarked on a groundbreaking journey, unveiling a pioneering drug checking model that harnessed the power of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) and NIRLAB software for on-site drug analysis. This in-depth white paper meticulously dives into the numerous benefits of harm reduction practices, focusing on
Use Cases
Explore use cases and white-papers for practical insights into applying NIR spectroscopy in different industries.
02. Oct 2025
Understanding Classification Problems: Theory to Real-World applications with NIRLAB
When we talk about classification problems, we’re essentially asking a model to decide: “Which group does this item belong to?” Unlike prediction problems that estimate continuous values, classification focuses on discrete categories, such as whether a product is genuine or counterfeit, or whether a plant is ready to harvest or
22. Jul 2025
Rapid Detection and Quantification of Falsified Viagra
Using Cloud-Based Portable NIR Technology and Machine Learning Reference: Hervé Rais, Pierre Esseiva, Olivier Delémont, Cédric Schelling, Stefan Stanojevic, Serge Rudaz, Florentin Coppey, Rapid detection and quantification of falsified Viagra using cloud-based portable NIR technology and machine learning, Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis, Volume 263, 2025, 116940, ISSN 0731-7085, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpba.2025.116940.
04. Nov 2024
How NIR Spectroscopy and Machine Learning are Transforming Material Analysis Across Industries
Introduction In today’s fast-paced industrial landscape, the demand for efficient and accurate material analysis is greater than ever. Industries such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and public safety require reliable, real-time data to ensure quality, safety, and performance. Traditional lab testing is being replaced by Near-Infrared (NIR) Spectroscopy, a technology enhanced by
08. Aug 2024
Use of Portable NIR Technology for Drug analysis in Australia
The challenge of efficiently and accurately analyzing illicit drugs remains significant in Australia due to the high volume of drugs trafficked within the country. A recent study explores the potential of Near-Infrared (NIR) spectroscopy combined with machine learning.1 Hence, by using NIRLAB’s solution to provide rapid and accurate drug identification
27. Jun 2024
Current Drug Situation in Europe 2024: An Insightful Analysis
The drug landscape in Europe is continually evolving, driven by the emergence of new substances, shifting usage patterns, and changing policies. The European Drug Report 20241 highlights these dynamics and underscores the need for a multifaceted response to drug-related challenges. This article offers a comprehensive analysis of the current drug
08. Mar 2024
Guilty until Proven Innocent: Rethinking Presumptive Drug Tests
Presumptive field drug tests in the American justice system spark concerns related to fairness, accuracy, and racial disparities. Annually, approximately 773,000 drug-related arrests hinge on these notoriously unreliable tests, pressing for urgent reform. A comprehensive study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania sheds light on the system’s alarming limitations. In
01. Mar 2024
Counterfeit Medicines: Unmasking the Role of NIR Spectroscopy
In the realm of pharmaceutical integrity and patient safety, the battle against counterfeit medicines presents a formidable challenge. Counterfeiters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making the need for advanced detection techniques more critical than ever. One such technique, Near-Infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, emerges as a beacon of hope in this ongoing struggle.
28. Feb 2024
Scanning Living Fish: A Case Study for Real-Time Fat Level Analysis
In the evolving landscape of spectroscopy applications, NIRLAB has established itself as a pioneer in the field. It extends its expertise to a variety of industries. Among its groundbreaking applications, the real-time analysis of fat levels in living fish, such as salmon, stands out. This serves as a testament to