FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared) spectroscopy is a powerful tool for analyzing samples.
It involves several key steps to ensure accurate results.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:
How is a sample analysis done in FTIR? (7 Steps Explained)
1. Sample Preparation
The sample to be analyzed is typically ground into a fine powder.
For solid samples, a small amount of the powder is mixed with potassium bromide (KBr) powder.
This mixture is then pressed into a solid pellet using a hydraulic press.
The pellet contains a small percentage (usually 1%) of the sample by weight.
2. Sample Placement
The prepared sample pellet is placed in a holder in the path of the infrared (IR) source.
The holder ensures that the sample is positioned correctly for analysis.
3. IR Source
An IR source emits infrared light, which is directed towards the sample.
The light passes through the sample, interacting with its molecular structure.
4. Interferometer
The IR beam passes through a partially silvered mirror.
This mirror splits the beam into two beams of equal intensity.
One beam is called the sample beam, which passes through the sample.
The other is called the reference beam, which bypasses the sample.
5. Interference Pattern
The two beams are then recombined, creating an interference pattern.
This interference pattern is a result of the interaction between the infrared light and the molecular structure of the sample.
The interference pattern contains information about the chemical bonds and vibrations in the sample.
6. Detector
A detector reads the analog signal created by the interference pattern and converts it into a digital spectrum.
The detector measures the intensity of the light at different frequencies.
7. Spectrum Analysis
The digital spectrum is then analyzed using a computer.
The computer identifies the peaks in the spectrum, which correspond to specific chemical bonds and vibrations in the sample.
The computer compares the spectrum of the sample with known spectra in a database to identify the composition and properties of the sample.
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