Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)

The Bruker INVENIO FTIR Spectrometer provides infrared spectroscopic analysis for identification and characterization of molecular functional groups, chemical bonding environments, and material composition.

FTIR spectroscopy measures wavelength-dependent infrared absorption arising from molecular vibrational transitions, enabling rapid qualitative and semi-quantitative analysis of a wide range of sample types including powders, films, liquids, polymers, and solid materials.

Transmission FTIR

  • Infrared light passes directly through the sample
  • Suitable for thin films, liquids, pellets, and transparent materials

Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) FTIR 

  • Surface-sensitive infrared measurements using internal reflection
  • Minimal sample preparation required

Chemical Analysis

  • Functional group identification: Characterization of O–H, C=O, C–H, N–H, and other vibrational modes
  • Reaction monitoring: Tracking chemical transformations through spectral changes
  • Compound verification: Comparison against reference spectra for material identification
  • Hydrogen bonding studies: Monitoring shifts in vibrational frequencies

Material & Thin Film Characterization

  • Polymer characterization: Identification of polymer composition and additives
  • Thin film analysis: Functional group characterization of deposited films and coatings

Biological & Biochemical Analysis

  • Biomolecule characterization: Functional group analysis of proteins and biological materials
  • Pharmaceutical identification: Verification of active ingredients and excipients
  • Formulation analysis: Characterization of complex pharmaceutical mixtures
  • Solid-state studies: Analysis of crystalline and amorphous material behavior

Environmental Analysis

  • Microplastics characterization: Polymer identification through infrared spectral matching
  • Organic residue analysis: Detection of oils, greases, and environmental residues
  • Environmental solids analysis: Identification of unknown materials and contaminants

Solid Samples

  • Powders, films, and solid materials should be:
    • Clean
    • Dry
    • Representative of the material being analyzed

Liquid Samples

  • Remember to bring extra solvent for blank
  • Avoid Water
    • Water strongly absorbs in portions of the IR region and may interfere with analysis
Service (per hour)UVM UsersExternal Users
User Instrument Time$12.71$19.07
Staff Assisted Use$81.98$122.97
Training Session$81.98$122.97
Prices as of July 1, 2026  

Interested in operating the FTIR independently?
ALCA offers hands-on training covering sample preparation, measurement modes, spectral acquisition, and infrared spectral interpretation for solids, liquids, films, and polymers.

Need optical characterization support?
Submit samples for full-service absorbance, transmission, reflectance, or thin-film optical analysis.