Infrared (IR) Spectroscopy

Fourier transform–infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy technology has progressed considerably over the past two decades, and it is now a relatively established analytical technique for process monitoring in addition to being a standard tool in the laboratory. The inherent design of FT-IR systems makes them preferable for use as a process monitoring and analysis tool, particularly in the life science industries, which is a promising market.

Data are presented for a pH-adjustable liquid UV-matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) matrix for mass spectrometry analysis. The liquid matrix system possesses high analytical sensitivity within the same order of magnitude as that achievable by the commonly used solid UV-MALDI matrices but with improved spot homogeneity and reproducibility. The pH of the matrix has been adjusted, achieving an on-target pH range of 3.5?8.6, which has allowed for the performance of a tryptic digest within the diluted pH-optimized liquid matrix.

The biological process of germination in wheat is accompanied by localized chemical distribution of lipid and protein, particularly within the germ area of the kernel. As the embryo develops, it draws sustenance from the scutellum and to some degree from the endosperm throughout the kernel. This study was focused on the embryo/scutellum material balance. A focal plane array Fourier transform (FT)-IR microspectrometer was used to obtain 48,000 spectra from scutella in situ to provide quantitative functional group comparison.

This month's Technology Forum looks at the topic of FT-IR/NIR spectroscopy and the trends and issues surrounding it. Joining us for this discussion are Rohit Bhargava, with the University of Illinois, Chris Petty, with Thermo Fisher Scientific, Jim Yano and John Beauchaine, with Aspectrics, Richard Larsen, with Jasco, Inc., and Alan Rein, with A2 Technologies.

A novel method of transition metal (TM) (Cr, Co, and Fe)-doped nanocrystals fabrication based upon laser ablation was demonstrated. For the first time, mid-IR luminescence from TM:II-VI nanocrystals was reported.

Diamonds are by far the world's most popular gemstone. Because of this popularity and the high prices of quality gemstones, there is a large market for cheaper counterfeit stones that resemble diamonds. Detecting these counterfeit stones can be a significant problem for diamond buyers when the stones are represented as the genuine article by unscrupulous sellers. Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy can be a useful tool for buyers and sellers to determine authenticity.

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Bruker Optics

The authors examine some of the novel biomedical applications of FT-IR imaging that are emerging today.

September 2006. The authors rapidly acquire complete vibrational spectra in the fingerprint region using a single femtosecond laser for broadband coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) microscopy to image spatially variant compositions of condensed-phase samples.

Recent developments in sample inlet systems, improved software, and the advent of special purpose mass spectrometers have improved the utility of MS instruments. here, the authors discuss this new utility.

Here the author compares near-infrared to mid-infrared as analytical tool in process management. he weighs the pros and cons of both spectral regions and suggests general applications for which one or the other is better suited.

IR imaging provides a new tool for disease detection, revealing compositional and structural information in tissue previously not available with contrast staining.

A report published earlier this year (1) discussed a UV–vis-NIR instrument designed for use on NASA Mars rover missions. This article follows up with coverage of the Planetary Fourier Spectrometer on the European Space Agency's Mars Express orbiter mission.

The authors describe their work characterizing archaelogical ceramics by means of Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) absorption. Semiquantitative analyses using the technique can identify the main components and trace elements constituting the ceramics. An accurate knowledge of the chemical composition of the samples gives useful information for their classification.

Encoded photometric technology has the ability to address the demands of modern process applications, including those of the PAT initiative.

The authors discuss progress in near-field IR microspectroscopy using a photothermal probe and show how it can be applied to the spectroscopic characterization of real-world samples.

Infrared technology was used as a method for rapid detection of potential Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome.

A "Technical Note" article.