Knowledge What is a KBr Disc? 4 Key Steps to Understanding Its Use in Infrared Spectroscopy
Author avatar

Tech Team · Kintek Solution

Updated 1 month ago

What is a KBr Disc? 4 Key Steps to Understanding Its Use in Infrared Spectroscopy

A KBr disc, also known as a KBr pellet, is a thin, transparent disc made primarily from potassium bromide (KBr) that is used in infrared spectroscopy.

This method involves mixing a sample with KBr powder in a specific ratio, typically between 0.2 to 1 percent concentration of the sample, to ensure clarity and optimal absorption of the infrared beam.

The mixture is then pressed under high pressure to form a transparent disc, which is used to analyze the sample's infrared spectrum.

What is a KBr Disc? 4 Key Steps to Understanding Its Use in Infrared Spectroscopy

What is a KBr Disc? 4 Key Steps to Understanding Its Use in Infrared Spectroscopy

1. Sample/KBr Ratio

The sample is mixed with KBr powder in a ratio that maintains the sample concentration between 0.2 to 1 percent.

This low concentration is necessary because the pellet is thicker than a liquid film, and a higher concentration could lead to noisy spectra due to complete absorption or scattering of the IR beam.

2. Mixing and Grinding

The sample and KBr are briefly ground together to mix thoroughly.

This process is ideally done in a glove box to minimize moisture absorption, which can affect the clarity of the final pellet.

Over-grinding should be avoided as it increases the surface area and potential moisture absorption.

3. Pressing

The mixed powder is placed in a pellet press die sleeve on a base plate, and a plunger is used to apply pressure, forming the disc.

The amount of KBr used typically ranges from 200 to 250 mg for a standard ½ inch diameter disc, with adjustments made for smaller discs based on their area.

4. Applications

KBr discs are primarily used in Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR).

In FTIR, the disc is exposed to infrared light, and the resulting light is analyzed to identify the chemical bonds and their vibrations in the sample.

This technique is crucial for identifying and analyzing various substances in fields ranging from chemistry to materials science.

In summary, a KBr disc is a fundamental tool in infrared spectroscopy, enabling the analysis of various samples by converting them into a transparent, infrared-compatible form.

The careful preparation and handling of these discs are essential for obtaining clear and accurate spectra.

Continue exploring, consult our experts

Discover the precision and efficiency that KINTEK SOLUTION's KBr discs bring to your infrared spectroscopy needs.

Our meticulously prepared KBr pellets ensure optimal absorption and clarity, enabling accurate and reliable analysis.

Experience the difference in sample preparation with KINTEK SOLUTION – your partner in achieving pristine infrared spectra.

Shop now and elevate your spectroscopy research to new heights!

Related Products

kbr pellet press 2T

kbr pellet press 2T

Introducing the KINTEK KBR Press - a handheld laboratory hydraulic press designed for entry-level users.

Disc / Cup Vibratory Mill

Disc / Cup Vibratory Mill

The vibrating disc mill is suitable for non-destructive crushing and fine grinding of samples with large particle sizes, and can quickly prepare samples with analytical fineness and purity.

XRD X-ray diffraction grinder

XRD X-ray diffraction grinder

KT-XRD180 is a miniature desktop multifunctional horizontal grinder specially developed for sample preparation of X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis.

XRF Boric Acid lab Powder Pellet Pressing Mold

XRF Boric Acid lab Powder Pellet Pressing Mold

Get accurate results with our XRF Boric Acid lab Powder Pellet Pressing Mold. Perfect for preparing samples for X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. Custom sizes available.

Automatic Lab XRF & KBR Pellet Press 30T / 40T / 60T

Automatic Lab XRF & KBR Pellet Press 30T / 40T / 60T

Fast and easy xrf sample pellet preparation with KinTek Automatic Lab Pellet Press. Versatile and accurate results for X-ray fluorescence analysis.

metal disk electrode

metal disk electrode

Elevate your experiments with our Metal Disk Electrode. High-quality, acid and alkali resistant, and customizable to fit your specific needs. Discover our complete models today.

Platinum disc electrode

Platinum disc electrode

Upgrade your electrochemical experiments with our Platinum Disc Electrode. High-quality and reliable for accurate results.

Potassium Fluoride (KF) Sputtering Target / Powder / Wire / Block / Granule

Potassium Fluoride (KF) Sputtering Target / Powder / Wire / Block / Granule

Get top-quality Potassium Fluoride (KF) materials for your lab needs at great prices. Our tailored purities, shapes, and sizes suit your unique requirements. Find sputtering targets, coating materials, and more.

Disc Cup Vibrating Mill Multi-Platform

Disc Cup Vibrating Mill Multi-Platform

The multi-platform vibrating disc mill is suitable for non-destructive crushing and fine grinding of samples with large particle sizes. It is suitable for crushing and grinding applications of medium-hard, high-hard, brittle, fibrous, and elastic materials.

Electric Hydraulic Pellet Press for XRF & KBR 20T / 30T / 40T / 60T

Electric Hydraulic Pellet Press for XRF & KBR 20T / 30T / 40T / 60T

Efficiently prepare samples with the Electric Hydraulic Press. Compact and portable, it's perfect for labs and can work in a vacuum environment.

Rotating Planetary Ball Mill

Rotating Planetary Ball Mill

KT-P400E is a desktop multi-directional planetary ball mill with unique grinding and mixing capabilities. It offers continuous and intermittent operation, timing, and overload protection, making it ideal for various applications.

lab infrared press mold

lab infrared press mold

Easily release samples from our lab infrared press mold for accurate testing. Ideal for battery, cement, ceramics, and other sample preparation research. Customizable sizes available.

XRF & KBR steel ring lab Powder Pellet Pressing Mold

XRF & KBR steel ring lab Powder Pellet Pressing Mold

Produce perfect XRF samples with our steel ring lab powder pellet pressing mold. Fast tableting speed and customizable sizes for accurate molding every time.

XRF & KBR plastic ring lab Powder Pellet Pressing Mold

XRF & KBR plastic ring lab Powder Pellet Pressing Mold

Get precise XRF samples with our plastic ring lab powder pellet pressing mold. Fast tableting speed and customizable sizes for perfect molding every time.

Hybrid High Energy Vibratory Ball Mill

Hybrid High Energy Vibratory Ball Mill

KT-BM400 is used for rapid grinding or mixing of dry, wet and frozen small amount of samples in the laboratory. It can be configured with two 50ml ball mill jars

Boron Nitride (BN) Crucible - Phosphorous Powder Sintered

Boron Nitride (BN) Crucible - Phosphorous Powder Sintered

Phosphorus powder sintered boron nitride (BN) crucible has a smooth surface, dense, pollution-free and long service life.


Leave Your Message