Water contamination can significantly affect the accuracy and reliability of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) measurements, especially when using NaCl or KBr plates. Here's why avoiding water contamination is crucial:
1. Hydroscopic Nature of KBr and NaCl: Both KBr and NaCl are hydroscopic, meaning they readily absorb water from the surrounding environment. If these materials absorb moisture, it can interfere with the FTIR measurements. The absorbed water can lead to the appearance of additional peaks in the spectrum that are not representative of the sample itself but are due to the water absorbed by the plates. This can distort the true spectrum of the sample, leading to misinterpretation of the data.
2. Impact on Sample Transparency: For accurate FTIR measurements, the sample must be transparent to infrared radiation. Salts like KBr and NaCl are used because they allow IR radiation to pass through, facilitating accurate spectrum readings. However, if these salts are contaminated with water, their transparency can be compromised. Water can scatter or absorb the IR radiation, reducing the intensity of the transmitted light and affecting the resolution and sharpness of the spectral peaks.
3. Influence on Sample Preparation and Measurement: In FTIR, samples are often prepared by mixing with KBr or NaCl and then pressed into pellets. If these salts contain water, it can affect the homogeneity of the pellet and the distribution of the sample within it. This can lead to inconsistent or inaccurate measurements. Additionally, for liquid samples, the use of water-contaminated NaCl or KBr plates can lead to dissolution of these salts, altering the sample environment and potentially damaging the sample cells.
4. Prevention Measures: To avoid these issues, it is recommended to prepare and handle KBr and NaCl in environments with controlled humidity, such as a glovebox. Using vacuum dies can also help, but the best practice is to minimize exposure to moisture from the outset. Proper cleaning and storage of the plates are also essential to prevent contamination.
In summary, avoiding water contamination in FTIR measurements using NaCl or KBr plates is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the sample, ensuring accurate and reproducible results, and preventing the introduction of extraneous peaks that can lead to misinterpretation of the data. Proper handling, preparation, and storage of these materials are key to successful FTIR analysis.
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