KBr is a crucial material in FTIR systems, primarily used as a supporting material in beamsplitters and sample holders.
4 Key Reasons Why KBr is Used in FTIR Systems
1. Transparency to Infrared Light
KBr is transparent to infrared light, which is essential for FTIR spectroscopy.
Infrared light is used to study the properties of matter by analyzing chemical bonds and their vibrations.
When KBr is used as a supporting material, it allows infrared light to pass through the sample without significant absorption or scattering.
This transparency ensures that the light interacts primarily with the sample material, providing accurate and reliable spectra.
2. Formation of KBr Pellets
KBr is commonly used to prepare pellets for FTIR analysis.
The sample, often in a very small concentration (typically around 1% by weight), is mixed with KBr and then compressed into a pellet using a hydraulic press.
This method allows for a controlled and uniform distribution of the sample within the pellet, crucial for obtaining a clear and interpretable FTIR spectrum.
The pellet formation process ensures that the sample is presented in a consistent and reproducible manner, important for comparative analyses.
3. Advantages Over Other Techniques
The use of KBr pellets offers several advantages over other sample preparation techniques such as attenuated total reflectance (ATR).
One significant advantage is the ability to adjust the pathlength of the infrared light through the sample by varying the thickness of the KBr pellet.
This flexibility allows for optimization of the signal intensity and resolution of the FTIR spectrum.
KBr pellets are a well-established and widely accepted method in the field of FTIR spectroscopy, providing a reliable and standardized approach to sample analysis.
4. Handling and Preparation Considerations
It is important to note that KBr is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air.
This property can affect the quality of the FTIR measurements if the KBr pellets are not prepared and stored properly.
To mitigate this issue, it is recommended to perform the grinding and pressing of KBr in a controlled environment, such as a glovebox or with a vacuum die, especially in humid conditions.
Proper handling and preparation techniques ensure that the KBr pellets remain dry and do not introduce extraneous signals in the FTIR spectrum due to moisture absorption.
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