FTIR Testing (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy)

Innovatech Labs uses FTIR Testing (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) as a materials analysis and characterization technique to identify organic (and in some cases inorganic) materials. This technique measures the range of wavelengths in the infrared region that are absorbed by a material. These infrared absorption bands identify molecular components and structures. Absorption bands in the range of 4000 - 1500 wavenumbers are typically due to functional groups (e.g. -OH, C=O, N-H, CH3, etc.). The region between 1500 - 400 wavenumbers is referred to as the fingerprint region. Absorption bands in this region are generally due to intra-molecular phenomena, and are highly specific for each material. The specificity of these bands allows computerized data searches to be performed against reference libraries to identify a material.

The microscope attachment enables samples as small as 10 microns to be analyzed.  Thin organic films on a reflective surface can be analyzed in situ using the microscope in the reflectance mode.

Unknown materials are identified by searching the spectrum against a database of reference spectra.  Materials can be quantified using the FTIR materials characterization technique as long as a standard curve of known concentrations of the component of interest can be created.

Learn more about FTIR Testing (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) by contacting analytical laboratory Innovatech Labs online or by calling one of our highly trained analysts 888-740-LABS (5227).