A consulting and research laboratory specializing in the
analysis and characterization of surfaces and materials

FTIR

Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy

Technique:

In Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (or FTIR analysis), an infrared spectrum of a sample is made by passing a beam of infrared light through a sample or reflecting off of the surface of the sample. The infrared light is absorbed at specific frequencies representing the vibrations of bonds or groups in the molecule. For a vibrational mode in a molecule to be infrared active it must have a permanent dipole. An absorbance spectrum is produced, showing the wavelengths that the sample absorbs, revealing details about the molecular structure of a sample.

FTIR imaging and spectra

Optical image (top right), 2D contour plot (top left) and FTIR spectra (bottom) of an ink spot on a business card. These results show the mapping capabilities of the Hyperion 2000. The FTIR spectra are from the blue and red areas highlighted on the optical image.

FTIR spectroscopy is particularly useful in analyzing and identifying organic and some inorganic compounds. Searchable in-house, electronic and on-line spectral databases are commonly utilized and are invaluable in identifying industrial chemicals and products.

Samples can be as small as 20µm and the FTIR spectrometer is sensitive to components that are present in concentrations greater than approximately 3-5% of the total.

Instrument:

Bruker Tensor II system with Hyperion 2000 microscope

System Accessories:

  • Hyperion 2000 microscope equipped with micro-attenuated total reflectance (germanium crystal), imaging capabilities, a mapping stage with mapping capabilities, grazing angle objective with polarizer, transmission/reflection
  • Platinum ATR unit A225 equipped with a 2mm x 2mm diamond crystal
  • Baseline™ Horizontal Attenuated Total Reflection Attachment with germanium and zinc selenide flat plates and a zinc selenide trough cell
  • Diamond Compression Cell
  • Model 500 Variable Angle Specular Reflectance Accessory
  • Baseline™ Diffuse Reflectance Kit
  • Demountable Liquid Cell Kit
  • Detection sensitivity of components at approximately 3-5% of the total

Selected Applications in Industry:

  • Identification/oxidation of polymers and fibres
  • Identification of contaminants on surfaces
  • Failure analysis of polymers
  • Material identification of organic films, particles, powders and liquids