The principle of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometer

what is the principle of fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer

The principle of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometer is based on the analysis of the absorption of infrared radiation by a sample. The sample is exposed to a broad range of infrared frequencies and the absorbed energy is measured. The data is then mathematically transformed using the Fourier Transform to produce a spectrum that shows the relative absorption of infrared radiation at each frequency, providing information about the chemical composition and functional groups in the sample.

 

why is fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer used

Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometer is widely used in various fields such as chemistry, biology, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and materials science. It is used to:

 

Identify unknown compounds and determine the functional groups present in a sample.

 

Characterize the composition and purity of materials, such as polymers, pharmaceuticals, and environmental samples.

 

Study the molecular structure of complex systems, such as proteins and lipids.

 

Monitor chemical and physical changes in samples over time.

 

Quantify the concentration of specific functional groups in a sample.

 

FTIR spectrophotometer is a versatile tool due to its ability to provide detailed molecular information from a variety of samples, including solids, liquids, and gases.

 

how to use fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer

The process of using a Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometer involves the following steps:

 

Sample preparation: The sample must be prepared in a manner that allows for efficient infrared radiation transmission. For solid samples, this may involve grinding the sample into a fine powder and pressing it into a pellet. For liquid samples, this may involve spreading the sample onto a transparent substrate.

 

Sample placement: The prepared sample is placed into the sample compartment of the FTIR spectrophotometer.

 

Data acquisition: The sample is exposed to a broad range of infrared frequencies and the absorbed energy is measured. This data is then collected and stored in the spectrophotometer.

 

Data analysis: The collected data is processed using a Fourier Transform to produce an infrared spectrum that shows the relative absorption of infrared radiation at each frequency. This spectrum provides information about the chemical composition and functional groups in the sample.

 

Data interpretation: The resulting infrared spectrum is interpreted to identify the functional groups present in the sample and to determine the chemical composition of the sample. This information can then be used to draw conclusions about the sample's molecular structure and to identify unknown compounds.

 

It is important to note that the accuracy of the results obtained using an FTIR spectrophotometer depends on proper sample preparation and instrument calibration.

 

Here are a few additional points about Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometry:

 

FTIR spectrophotometer operates in the mid-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum, typically between 4000 cm^-1 and 400 cm^-1.

 

The instrument typically uses a Michelson interferometer to measure the intensity of the absorbed infrared radiation.

 

FTIR spectrophotometer can be used in a variety of experimental configurations, including transmission, reflection, and attenuated total reflection (ATR).

 

FTIR spectrophotometry is a non-destructive technique, meaning that the sample remains intact after analysis.

 

The resolution of an FTIR spectrophotometer can be improved by using higher-quality interferometer components or by using a more complex instrument configuration, such as a Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIRS).

 

FTIR spectrophotometer can be used in combination with other analytical techniques, such as Raman spectroscopy, to provide complementary information about the sample.

 

The cost of FTIR spectrophotometer varies depending on the specifications and features of the instrument, with high-end instruments costing several hundred thousand dollars. However, lower-cost FTIR spectrophotometers are also available for less demanding applications.

 

Posted in Default Category on February 16 at 02:31 PM

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