May 8th 2024
I have been writing this column for almost 10 years, and we have reached a watershed moment. We have covered what I call the beginning and intermediate topics. However, before we venture off into advanced topics, a review is in order. I will spend the next four columns summarizing what we have learned so far so that the advanced topics will make more sense.
High-Definition Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopic Imaging of the Tumor Microenvironment
September 2nd 2021Professor Rohit Bhargava and his team at the University of Illinois, where they have established the Cancer Center at Illinois, are advancing research in tumor microenvironments, using techniques such as high-definition Fourier transform infrared (HD-FT-IR) coupled with machine learning. We recently spoke to Bhargava about this work.
Common Problems with FT-IR Instruments and How to Avoid Them
September 2nd 2021Those inexperienced in using FT-IR spectrometers can encounter problems when measuring spectra. This article discusses several main issues that most users experience while using FT-IR spectrometers and how to remedy each problem.
Resonant Surface-Enhanced Infrared Spectroscopy (Resonant SEIRA) Using Metal Nanoantennas
August 1st 2021Resonant SEIRA overcomes the limitations of traditional Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy for minute sample sizes of relatively low absorptivity. Frank Neubrech of Heidelberg University is exploring resonant SEIRA in applications such as monitoring dynamic processes and hyperspectral infrared chemical imaging.
Fingerprinting of Mineral Medicine Natrii Sulfas by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
June 1st 2021We show how FT-IR may be used for quality control analysis of natrii sulfas, a transparent crystalline material used in natural medicine that primarily contains sodium sulfate decahydrate, crystallized from sulfate minerals.
The Grand Review I: Why Do Different Functional Groups Have Different Peak Positions?
November 1st 2020Articles in this column have addressed five main areas: theory, functional groups containing the C-H bond, those containing the C-O bond, those with the C=O bond, and those with organic nitrogen compounds. Here, we review the concepts.
Insights Toward Standardization of the Analysis of Microplastics by Infrared Microscopy
August 1st 2020Here we conduct an evaluation of significant operational parameters of IR microscopy for accurately determining the size of microplastics, with the overarching goal of outlining performance parameters that will help in the standardization of microplastics analysis.
Organic Nitrogen Compounds VIII: Imides
March 1st 2020Here, we continue our examination of the infrared (IR) spectra of organic nitrogen compounds with imides, which are a common chemical intermediate. IR can be used not only to identify imides, but also to distinguish between straight chain and cyclic imides. We explain how.
Analysis of FDA Infrared 483 Citations: Have You a Data Integrity Problem?
September 1st 2019Analysis of FDA Form 483 observations and warning letters for infrared spectrometers reveals a range of data integrity problems and a lack of laboratory procedures for the technique. Is your laboratory in the same situation?