Analysis of Forages by Infrared Reflectance

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Abstract
IR reflectance is a rapid accurate procedure for measuring nutrients in grains and forages. Factors that affect prediction of forage quality include plant species, method of preservation and constituents in the forage other than those being measured. Selection of wavelengths for prediction is the key. Statistical procedures are studied to improve selection of wavelength and to lower prediction errors. Commercial instruments recently introduced have greater data processing capabilities and greater wavelength (filter) selection than earlier models but more research is needed to determine the appropriate wavelengths for each type of forage and feedstuff. An alternative to the filter instrument is a small monochromator-based instrument similar to the prototype developed in this study. This instrument can collect, process and select a set of wavelengths to use for prediction for each different type of forage or feedstuff. New applications of the sample from the spectra, prediction of percent legume .+-. 10% in grass-legume mixtures, heat damaged protein (acid detergent fiber insoluble N .+-. 0.01%), P .+-. 0.04%, Ca .+-. 0.14%, Ca to P ratio .+-. 0.68%, K 0.41% and B .+-. 5.4 ppm. Other minerals evaluated having low predictability are Al, Fe, Zn, Na, Mn, Mg and Cu.

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