Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR and FTIR-ATR) used to identify various functional groups in organic compounds such as rubbers, fillers, blends, plastics, paints, resigns and adhesives. Chemical bonds between different atoms absorb energy at different wavelengths.
The absorbed energy is measured using an infrared spectrometer which produces a unique infra-red absorption spectra over a wide frequency range.
Then, FTIR spectra are compared with in-house reference materials or online library to identify the components. Also, the peak patterns are analysed and correlated with chemical structures from database.
Rubber Consultants has FTIR-ATR which uses attenuated total reflection (ATR) sampling technique which allows samples’ examination in the solid or liquid state without further preparation. Moreover, FTIR can be coupled to the TGA which allows analysis of the vapour phase of evolved products from thermal decomposition.
Applications
- Identification of polymer/ rubber type
- Analysis of coatings
- Failure analysis
- Surface decomposition and degradation
