© 2026 RNDgrid

Spectroscopy

FTIR Spectroscopy Analysis

FTIR analysis measures infrared absorption to investigate functional groups, chemical bonding, material identity, and changes between samples.

Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy is widely used for polymers, organics, coatings, pharmaceuticals, powders, liquids, and composite materials. RNDgrid helps select ATR, transmission, or another suitable sampling approach based on sample form and the information needed. Interpretation should consider formulation, concentration, overlapping bands, preparation, and comparison references.

When this method is useful

  • Polymers, organic compounds, coatings, oils, pharmaceuticals, powders, films, and unknown residues
  • Functional-group screening, identity comparison, curing or oxidation changes, and contamination investigation
  • Comparative studies between untreated, processed, aged, or formulated samples

What the report can include

  • Infrared spectrum over the agreed wavenumber range
  • Peak positions and relative intensity information
  • Optional library comparison or technical interpretation when included in scope

Sample preparation and scoping

  • Provide the sample state, solvent or matrix information, expected chemistry, and whether the sample can contact an ATR crystal.
  • Avoid contamination from handling, packaging, moisture, or cleaning agents.
  • Comparative work is strongest when reference and test samples are measured under the same conditions.

Limitations to consider

  • Complex mixtures often produce overlapping bands and may not identify every component independently.
  • FTIR is generally not a definitive quantitative method without validated calibration.
  • Inorganic materials without infrared-active vibrations may provide limited information.

Capabilities, detection limits, accreditation scope, and turnaround vary by method and partner laboratory. Confirm the final scope in the quotation before sending samples.

Questions to answer before booking

  1. Do you need identity confirmation, functional groups, contamination analysis, or comparison?
  2. Is the sample a powder, liquid, film, coating, bulk solid, or solution?
  3. Is a reference material available for direct comparison?

Related methods

Request FTIR testing

Share your sample type, objective, expected range, number of samples, and required timeline. The current booking and quotation flow remains unchanged.

Share Request