November/December 2025

In this part of our ongoing review of the infrared spectra of carbonyl-containing functional groups, we will study the spectra of esters and carbonates. Esters are ubiquitous in our food and medicines, and polymeric carbonates form an important part of the materials around us. As always, concepts will be illustrated with reference spectra.

Spectroscopy is rapidly evolving, and professionals who build expertise in AI-driven analytics, automation, and high-demand sectors like pharma, biotech, and materials science will be best positioned to advance their careers despite industry-wide talent and budget challenges.