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FTIR Analysis, or FTIR Spectroscopy, also known as Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, is the most common analytical method used to distinguish polymeric, organic, and inorganic materials. The FTIR analysis technique scans test samples and examines chemical characteristics using infrared light.
Generally, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy can be quickly and easily performed using Agilent FTIR spectroscopy instruments to identify materials and quantify the constituents in a sample.
Infrared spectroscopies operate under the premise that some IR radiation is absorbed when it passes through a sample. It is noted whenever radiation enters the sample. The spectra can be utilized to recognize and differentiate between structures because different molecules, due to their various structures, produce various spectra. As a result, the spectra are all virtually unique.
Continue reading to learn about the process, uses, and advantages of FTIR.
Process of FTIR
Covalent bonds in molecules will carefully absorb light of particular wavelengths, changing the excitation energy in the bond. The atoms in the bond determine the type of vibration caused by the infrared radiation. Generally, the transmittance sequence varies between molecules because distinct bonds and functional groups absorb various frequencies.
Unidentified materials are found by comparing the spectrum to a directory of spectral data. As long as creating a standard curve of known concentrations of the component of interest is possible, components can be measured using the FTIR materials characterization technique.
Unknown materials, additives found in polymers, surface contamination on a material, and more can all be found using FTIR analysis. The test results can identify the molecular structure and composition of a sample.
An interferometer tool creates a light beam with all the IR frequencies encoded into it to create samples.
The signal is then decrypted using a mathematical process called the Fourier transformation. Then the spectral data is mapped using this computer-generated process. The spectrum from this graph is then identified by searching it against reference libraries.
Uses of FTIR
A proven method for quality assurance when assessing commercially processed materials is Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy spectroscopy, frequently used as the initial phase in the material analysis process.
A modification in the material’s composition or the appearance of pollutants is indicated by a change in the pattern of absorption bands. Visual inspection may reveal product flaws, and FTIR microanalysis is typically utilized to pinpoint their source.
The following are the main uses of FTIR:
- Identifying unknown compounds
- Quantitative data, such as contaminants or additives
- The increase or decrease in infrared absorptions can provide kinetic information
- To provide detailed information when combined with additional tools
Organic production, material science, chemical industries, biological research, pharmaceutics, and food analysis are some of the industries that use Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. Field analysis has also been studied with portable FTIR spectrometers.
Biological Research
FTIR can be utilized in biological research to examine proteins in hydrophobic membrane settings. A protein’s active center’s interactions with amino acids, linkers, and particular water molecules can be observed using time-resolved (tr)FTIR spectroscopy. The molecular reaction mechanism can then be precisely understood by measuring time ranging from nanoseconds to seconds.
Environmental Sector
FTIR is used in various ways in the environmental sector. It can be used to examine soil samples and keep an eye on the air and water quality. Also, it can tackle environmental and human health problems that have developed due to rising pollution levels.
Food Industry
The food industry utilizes FTIR to confirm its compliance with the legal requirements. It can keep track of the food’s rheological, chemical, and physical characteristics. One example is examining the trans-fat content of manufactured foods using infrared attenuated total reflectance (ATR).
Comparing the variations in wheat varieties’ grains is another instance of using FTIR in the food industry. The FTIR method can also be used to detect foodborne pathogens.
Advantages of FTIR
Clients can better comprehend materials and products due to Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy analysis. Generally, experts use FTIR to identify chemical compounds in commodities, paints, polymers, sealants, pharmaceuticals, and other products. They are available globally for analytical testing sample screens, profiles, and data interpretation.
For both organic and inorganic samples, FTIR provides quantitative and qualitative analysis. By creating an infrared absorption spectrum, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) can identify the chemical bonds in a molecule.
The spectra create a sample profile or distinct molecular fingerprint that can be utilized to monitor and search samples for various components. FTIR is a useful analytical tool for identifying functional groups and describing information about covalent bonds.
For several reasons, FTIR is the recommended approach to infrared spectroscopy. First off, the sample is not ruined. Second, it is considerably quicker than earlier methods. Third, it is much more accurate and sensitive.
These FTIR advantages result from using a Fourier transform and an interferometer, which acts as the “source” of infrared light and permits greater speed. A mathematical operation known as the Fourier transform breaks down waves and calculates the wave frequency based on time.
Interpretation of FTIR Spectral
Although there are many applications for Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy spectroscopy, it is not easy to interpret the data. The total spectrum produced is a function of absorbed energy response by nature.
Generally, the absorbed bands visible in the spectrum are degenerative and only marginally distinct. The specific “peak” energy at a given wavenumber can move around based on additional chemical and matrix factors. Most skilled analysts in all spectrographic techniques are probably required to characterize the functionality presented accurately.
Once the chemistry is comprehended and primary source materials are available, FTIR analysis, utilized as a qualitative tool for identifying material, can also be used to quantify particular functional groups. The amount of functionality in the sample will be reflected in the intensity of absorbance.
For example, using FTIR for quantitative analysis, you can characterize the amount of water in an oil sample and the level of oxidation and nitration. However, it must be noted that FTIR is a “bulk” analytical technique in that information can be gleaned from trace or small concentrations of material in a sample.
References:
https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/PH/en/technical-documents/technical-article/analytical-chemistry/photometry-and-reflectometry/ftir-spectroscopy
https://www.intertek.com/analysis/ftir/
https://www.azom.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=17780
