In FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared) spectroscopy, a sample analysis is done by following these steps:
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, which is transparent to infrared light. The 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, which splits the beam into two beams of equal intensity. One beam is called the sample beam, which passes through the sample, and 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.
Overall, FTIR analysis involves exposing a sample to infrared light, using an interferometer to create an interference pattern, and analyzing the resulting spectrum to identify the chemical bonds and vibrations in the sample. The sample preparation, sample placement, IR source, interferometer, detector, and spectrum analysis are important components of the FTIR analysis process.
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