Infrared spectroscopy uses different methods depending on the type of sample, whether it's solid, liquid, or gas. These methods help get accurate spectra from the samples.
What are the 5 Methods of Infrared Spectroscopy?
1. Diffuse Reflection Method
This method is great for powder samples. It scatters infrared light off the sample and collects it with a detector. This method has become more popular with the use of FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared) spectroscopy.
2. Attenuated Total Reflection (ATR)
ATR lets you measure powder samples without much preparation. It sends infrared light into a crystal at an angle, causing total internal reflection. Even though the light reflects inside the crystal, a little bit interacts with the sample, giving us spectral information.
3. KBr Pellet Method
This classic method mixes the sample with potassium bromide (KBr) and presses it into a pellet under high pressure. The pellet is then analyzed in an IR spectrometer. This method works well for crystalline or powdered materials.
4. Nujol Mull Method
In this method, the sample is mixed with Nujol (a type of mineral oil) to form a suspension. The suspension is then sandwiched between two salt plates and analyzed. This technique is good for non-volatile solids and requires the sample particles to be smaller than the IR radiation wavelength.
5. Solution Techniques
Solid samples can be analyzed by dissolving them in a non-aqueous solvent and placing a drop of this solution on an alkali metal disc. The solvent is then evaporated, leaving a thin film of the solute on the disc, which can be analyzed by IR spectroscopy.
Each method has its benefits and is chosen based on the sample's nature and the information needed. For example, ATR is good for direct analysis without much preparation, while the KBr pellet method is ideal for crystalline materials. The choice of method also depends on how well the sample lets IR radiation through, sometimes needing salts like NaCl or KBr.
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