Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR)

FTIR is Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy which is a very versatile analytical technique that can be used to identify organic and inorganic compounds. 

The interpretation skills of our FTIR analysts have been gained by experience over a significant period of time from the analysis of a wide range of spectra of sample types and we excel at problem solving.  

FTIR is particularly useful for identifying unknown samples and contaminants and almost any kind of sample can be identified from biological samples to clay minerals. Typical applications include blockages in pipes from offshore and engineering industries, scale deposits, engine deposits/contaminations, polymers e.g. paints and coatings, and failed ‘o’ rings. We analyze a a wide range of sample types supplied from the oil and gas sector, engineering companies, mining companies and the food industry. 

This technique can be applied to virtually any manufacturing or industrial process. Where something doesn’t look right or behave in the way that it should, we have the capability to identify the unknown substance to help find the reason for the process failure. For example, if a batch of a chemical appears suspect and not as effective as previous batches, we can do a direct chemical profile of both batches to highlight any differences.       

Trust FTIR for fast, accurate and cost-effective analysis, every time

Angela Main, Senior IR Analyst/IR Lab Manager

The advantages of this technique are that a very small amount of sample is required with minimal sample preparation. We can produce results quickly providing a rapid turnaround for customers at competitive rates

FTIR
Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy equipment
FTIR
FTIR

Contact for more information

Senior IR Analyst
Based in Aberdeen
T: +44 (0)1224 395331
Angela graduated in 1987 with an honours degree in Physical Sciences (Chemistry) and has over 30 years laboratory experience including the analysis of drinking waters, effluents ,waste waters and core analysis. Since joining the institute in 2001 she has worked in microbiology and molecular biology gaining experience of phospholipid fatty acid analysis (PLFA), microresp, DNA extractions and mTRFLP of soils. After 2012 she has been working in the FTIR spectroscopy section on a mixture of commercial and RESAS funded research projects. She has vast experience of spectral interpretation.