FTIR (Fourier Transform InfraRed) spectroscopy is an analytical technique used to determine molecular bonding states of mostly organic materials. The technique works by measuring the absorption of light as a function of wavelength. The IR absorption bands identify molecular components, structures and organic functional groups. The spectrum from the sample under analysis can be compared to standard spectra in computer databases or with a spectrum obtained from a known material. FTIR applications include:
- Identification of unknown materials and the organic functional groups.
- Determination of the quality or consistency of a sample. It can determine the amount of various components in a mixture.
- Materials examined are: polymers, surface coatings, ultra-thin coatings, films on metals, surface contaminants, powders, pastes, rubbers, biomaterials, etc.
The ADL owns a Nicolet 8700 FTIR spectrometer from Thermo Electron Corp for regular and micro FTIR measurements. The instrument is equipped with
Transmittance, Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) and Reflectance measurement capabilities for solid, powder and liquid samples in regular and micro FTIR modes
- White light and IR sources
- KBr, CaF2 and Quartz beam splitters
- DTGS-TEC, MCT-A and an InSb detectors
- ATR accessory with Ge and Diamond crystals
- Diamond cell for Transmittance measurements in micro FTIR mode
- Multiple Bounce ATR accessory with ZnSe crystal at multiple take-off angles
Instrument Manager: Jennifer Sammakia
Back-up: Anju Sharma
