Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR)

Reliable infrared spectroscopy for material identification, quality control and investigative analysis

Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a powerful and versatile technique used to identify and characterise organic and inorganic compounds. Our experienced analysts deliver accurate material identification and problem-solving support across a wide range of sample types and industries.

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

Reliable infrared spectroscopy for material identification, quality control and investigative analysis
Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy equipment
Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a powerful and versatile technique
FTIR

What is Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy?

Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is an analytical technique used to identify chemical compounds by measuring how they absorb infrared light. James Hutton Institute Scientific Services uses FTIR to analyse the molecular composition of materials and identify organic and inorganic compounds.

Why is FTIR useful in scientific analysis?

FTIR provides rapid identification of chemical compounds and functional groups within complex samples. James Hutton Institute Scientific Services uses FTIR to support research into soil chemistry, environmental processes and material characterisation.

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.