Fourier transform infrared spectrography (FTIR) is a method that is used to measure absorption emission, infrared spectrum and Raman scattering of liquid, solid and gas. FTIR originates from the Fourier transform, which is a mathematical process necessary to exchange raw data into a visual spectrum.
In this technique, infrared radiation enters a sample. Some of the IR radiation is transmitted, while some is absorbed. The spectrum that results from this molecular transmission and absorption creates sample “fingerprints” from which substances may be identified.
Fourier transform infrared spectrography is helpful in the qualitative and quantitative analysis of both organic and inorganic samples. In terms of material or product analysis, corrosion control and other functions, it can determine:
- Unknown materials
- Quantity of a certain component within a mixture
- Consistency and quality of a given sample
When testing a material, the infrared spectrum corresponds to a sample fingerprint with absorption peaks that match up to the vibration frequencies between atom bonds that compose the material under analysis.
Since every material has a distinct atom combination, it is impossible to generate the same infrared spectrum in two compounds. Thus, FTIR can provide positive determination results for each type of material, especially with the aid of modern algorithm software.