The main difference between KBr (potassium bromide) and ATR (attenuated total reflection) is the method used for analysis.
KBr is used in FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared) spectroscopy as a matrix or holder for solid samples. The sample is mixed with KBr powder and pressed into a pellet form. This technique is mainly used for powder analysis. The advantages of using KBr pellets include the ability to control the signal intensity by changing the sample concentration or adding extra sample and KBr to the pellet die. This allows for greater control over peak intensities, especially when identifying weak bands or trace contaminants. KBr pellets also require less sample than ATR and have higher signal-to-noise ratios. Additionally, KBr pellets do not require peak intensity correction.
On the other hand, ATR is used for surface analysis without the need for any extra materials or holders. In ATR spectroscopy, the sample is pressed against a high-refractive-index prism, and the infrared spectrum is measured using infrared light that is totally internally reflected in the prism. ATR is an excellent method for obtaining infrared information for the surface of powder samples. However, care must be taken with the wavenumber dependency of the absorption peak intensity and peak deformation due to the anomalous dispersion of the refractive index for inorganic and other high-refractive-index samples.
In summary, KBr is used in FTIR spectroscopy as a matrix or holder for solid samples, while ATR is used for surface analysis without any additional materials. KBr pellets offer advantages such as control over signal intensity and higher signal-to-noise ratios, while ATR is a convenient method for obtaining infrared information from the surface of powder samples.
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