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FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) helps identify and characterize the materials that are used in manufacturing. Associated Polymer Labs, Inc. provides this test to screen polymer and plastic samples. This testing process identifies unknown materials that can affect finished product quality.

Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) identifies chemical bonds in a molecule by producing an infrared absorption spectrum. The FTIR generates an infrared spectral scan of samples that absorb infrared light. Metals do not absorb infrared light, but polymers that contain metals can be scanned with FTIR.

• FTIR is important for screening, and identifying polymer or plastic samples. See below for Analysis applications
• Unknown spectral scans can be analyzed to determine the base material of the unknown by comparing their scan to spectral scans of known materials that are stored in a computer-based library.

The resulting spectra produces a profile of the sample. FTIR is an effective analytical instrument for detecting functional groups and characterizing materials.

Sampling Techniques:

• Transmission, solvent extraction, thin films, diffuse reflectance, and pressed KBr pellets.

Samples the size of a single resin pellet can be scanned by reflective FTIR. Samples, which can be easily tested by reflective FTIR, include polymer pellets, parts, opaque samples, fibers, powders, wire coatings, and liquids.

FTIR spectral analysis identifies classes of polymers such as:

• Nylons, Polyesters, Polypropylenes, Polycarbonates, Polyurethanes, Acetals, or Polyethylenes.

Further identification using other analytical techniques are necessary. FTIR spectral scan alone may not identify the type of Nylon, Pebex, or Polyester, or identify a Polypropylene or Acetal as a homopolymer or copolymer, or determine whether a Polyethylene is a high density or low density material.

FTIR Analysis Applications:

• Quantitative Scans
• Qualitative Scans
• Solids, Films, Liquids
• Organic Samples
• Inorganic Samples
• Plastics
• Polymers
• Contamination identification
• Impurities Screening
• Formulation, Deformulaation
• Packaging materials, foams, films, bubble wrap
• Medical devices, tubing, coatings, adhesives
• Personal care products, Cosmetics
• Consumer goods
• Toys
• Household products
• Building Products