Contamination Analysis with FTIR
Contamination analysis with fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR).
Contaminant identification by FTIR is available through the global Intertek laboratory network.
Contamination Identification using FTIR:
Comprehensive libraries of infra-red spectra are available, specific to the pulp, paper and plastics industries, along with commercial libraries of many other chemicals, combined with years of experience at spectral interpretation.
FTIR theory:
Radiation from the infra-red region of the electromagnetic spectrum can be absorbed by bonds between atoms in a molecule, causing them to vibrate. The wavelength and energy of infra-red absorptions are characteristic of the type of chemical bond, and can provide a ‘fingerprint’ to identify different chemical types.
FTIR samples:
It is possible to obtain infra-red spectra of many different types of materials: gases, liquids, solids, either by transmission or reflectance. The sample could be a surface coating on paper or another substrate such as plastic, a powder, polymer, dried solvent extract, process deposit, contamination, coating streak or spot, filler, adhesive, ash; almost any sample configuration is possible.
FTIR microscopy:
Intertek can also offer infra-red microscopy to help identify micro-contaminants. A very small sample such as a spot down to 0.1 mm in size, can be prepared using a stereo optical microscope, and transferred to a diamond compression cell. Here it is flattened in order to obtain a transmission spectrum using an infra-red microscope.
Contamination and FTIR Analysis Services:
Contact us to see how Intertek can help your organization with Contamination Analysis with FTIR.