Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)

AMI uses a Perkin Elmer Spectrum One FTIR.

FTIR spectroscopy can be used on solid or liquid samples, typically organic, polymeric, and sometimes inorganic. IR radiation is passed through a sample, and some of the radiation is absorbed by the sample. The remaining radiation passes through (is transmitted) the sample. The radiation that is absorbed is converted into vibrational and rotational energy by the sample molecules. The resulting signal at the detector is a spectrum, typically from 4000 cm-1 to 400cm-1, representing a molecular "fingerprint" of the sample.  Each molecule or chemical structure will produce a unique spectral fingerprint, making FTIR analysis a great tool for chemical identification. The peaks in the spectrum can be compared with known values for typical molecular movement energies. Additionally, spectra can be compared to those within a database.

Typical uses for FTIR:

• Identify and characterize unknown materials (e.g., films, solids, powders, or liquids)
• Identify contamination on or in a material (e.g., particles, fibers, powders, or liquids)
• Identify additives after extraction from a polymer matrix
• Identify oxidation, decomposition, or uncured monomers in failure analysis investigations