01 · ATR-FTIR
Molecular fingerprints in seconds — no sample preparation
Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier-Transform Infrared spectroscopy identifies functional groups and chemical bonds in solids, powders, liquids and films placed directly on the crystal.
- Technique
- FTIR with single-reflection ATR accessory
- Spectral range
- 4000 – 400 cm⁻¹ (typical, mid-IR)
Working principle
Infrared light from the source passes through an interferometer and into an internal-reflection crystal. At each reflection an evanescent wave penetrates a few micrometres into the sample pressed against the crystal surface, and is absorbed at frequencies that match the vibrations of the molecule’s bonds.
The detector records an interferogram, which a Fourier transform converts into a spectrum of absorbance against wavenumber. Because the bonds in every compound vibrate at characteristic frequencies, the spectrum works as a molecular fingerprint — confirming synthesis, identifying unknowns and tracking chemical change.
The ATR accessory removes the need for KBr pellets or mulls: most samples are measured as received, in under a minute.
Representative spectrum · for illustration
Technical specifications
- Technique
- FTIR with single-reflection ATR accessory
- Spectral range
- 4000 – 400 cm⁻¹ (typical, mid-IR)
- Resolution
- Up to 4 cm⁻¹ (selectable)
- Output
- Absorbance / % Transmittance spectra
- Data formats
- PDF report, CSV / ASCII, native file
Typical turnaround: 2–4 working days after sample receipt
Capabilities
- Functional-group identification
- Confirmation of synthesised compounds
- Comparison against reference spectra
- Polymer and film characterisation
- Monitoring of reactions and degradation
- Absorbance & transmittance measurement
Samples accepted
- Solids and powders
- Liquids and viscous pastes
- Polymer films and sheets
- Fibres and coatings
- Gels
Sample requirements
- Solids: about 5–10 mg; powders should be dry and finely ground
- Liquids: a few drops (approx. 0.1 mL) in a sealed vial
- Samples must be dry — water and solvents mask key regions of the spectrum
- Label each sample clearly and mention expected functional groups if known
- Declare any hazardous, corrosive or air-sensitive samples in advance
Applications
Synthetic chemistry
Verify the formation of new bonds — Schiff bases, esters, amides, metal complexes — and the disappearance of starting materials.
Materials & nanoscience
Surface functionalisation of nanoparticles, polymer composites, thin films and coatings.
Pharmaceutical & natural products
Identity checks of drugs and excipients; characterisation of plant extracts and phytochemicals.
Environmental & forensic
Identification of microplastics, fibres, residues and unknown materials.
Service charges
Available on request
Charges depend on the technique, the number of samples and your user category (internal, academic or industry). Submit an enquiry and we will email you a quotation.
Ready when you are
Send us your sample details and get a reference number instantly.
Track every step online — from review and quotation to analysis and report.