The Latest Research Using FT-IR Spectroscopy

Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy is an analytical spectroscopic technique that is becoming more pervasive in industry. It is now being used in many application areas, such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage analysis, and environmental, to analyze organic, inorganic, and polymeric materials (1). It works by measuring the infrared (IR) spectrum of absorption, emission, and photoconductivity of a sample.

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FT-IR spectroscopy is a technique that possesses several strengths. It is highly sensitive, flexible, and robust, with an ability to analysis solid, liquid, and gaseous analytes (1). Below, we have compiled a list of some of the recent studies that have used FT-IR spectroscopy analysis. Happy reading!

Analysis of Semiconductor Surfaces via FT-IR: New Insights with Infrared Reflection Anisotropy Spectroscopy

Scientists at Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University introduced a new method for leveraging FT-IR reflection anisotropy spectroscopy for the analysis of semiconductors (2).

Barbie Dolls Under the Microscope and FT-IR ATR: Unveiling the Secrets of Iconic Toy Degradation

This article examines the material composition and degradation processes of Barbie dolls produced between 1959 and 1976, a study conducted by Italian researchers from various institutions. Using a multi-analytical approach, including FT-IR ATR spectroscopy, the team analyzed 15 Barbie dolls to understand manufacturing changes and degradation phenomena (3). Initially made from plasticized PVC, early Barbies suffered from additive migration, leading to surface tackiness and glossiness. Over time, more stable polymers like EVA and ABS were used (3). The study revealed significant material changes driven by technological advancements and regulatory pressures (3). It identified phthalate-based plasticizer migration as a primary degradation cause, leading to embrittlement and tacky patina formation (3). The findings underscore the need for innovative preservation strategies for plastic artifacts, offering valuable insights for collectors, conservators, and cultural heritage professionals.

Improving Asphalt Recycling Using FT-IR Spectroscopy

This article explores the application of Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy in analyzing reclaimed asphalt (RA) to ensure its suitability for new asphalt mixtures. RA has an 85% reuse rate but poses challenges because of variability in bitumen and potential polycyclic-aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contamination (4). A research team at the University of Kassel developed a modified FT-IR method to efficiently and reliably analyze RA composition. This method rapidly extracts binders and uses attenuated total reflectance (ATR) FT-IR spectroscopy to detect PAHs and modern additives like SBS and organic viscosity modifiers (4). The enhanced screening capabilities of this FT-IR method are crucial for maintaining the safety and quality of RA, impacting the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of road maintenance (4). This technique has the potential for global application, ensuring safer and more efficient road construction practices.

Revolutionizing Dairy Safety: The Role of FT-IR Spectroscopy

This article discusses the significant potential of Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy in ensuring dairy product quality and safety. As global food supply chains expand, the need for reliable analytical techniques grows (5). FT-IR spectroscopy, which measures the absorption of infrared frequencies, is highlighted for its high throughput, minimal sample preparation, and low costs (5).

Kamal Gandhi and his team at ICAR, NDRI, analyzed numerous studies and concluded that FT-IR is effective in detecting adulterants and contaminants in dairy products such as ghee, butter, cheese, and milk powder (5). The integration of chemometrics with FT-IR enhances its precision in identifying contaminants (5). The article underscores FT-IR's efficiency, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness, advocating for its broader application in the dairy industry to ensure product safety and quality.

The Latest in Food and Beverage Analysis

Food and beverage analysis remains an important application area where spectroscopic techniques are playing a vital role. Over the past few weeks, Spectroscopy published a variety of articles on this subject (6). This article highlights several recent studies that used FT-IR analysis in the food and beverage industry.

References

Thain, S. IR Spectroscopy and FT-IR Spectroscopy: How an FT-IR Spectrometer Works and FT-IR Analysis. Technology Networks. Available at: https://www.technologynetworks.com/analysis/articles/ir-spectroscopy-and-ftir-spectroscopy-how-an-ftir-spectrometer-works-and-ftir-analysis-363938 (accessed 2024-07-17).

Workman, Jr., J. Analysis of Semiconductor Surfaces via FT-IR: New Insights with Infrared Reflection Anisotropy Spectroscopy. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/analysis-of-semiconductor-surfaces-via-ft-ir-new-insights-with-infrared-reflection-anisotropy-spectroscopy (accessed 2024-07-17).

Workman, Jr., J. Barbie Dolls Under the Microscope and FT-IR ATR: Unveiling the Secrets of Iconic Toy Degradation. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/barbie-dolls-under-the-microscope-and-ft-ir-atr-unveiling-the-secrets-of-iconic-toy-degradation (accessed 2024-07-17).

Wetzel, W. Improving Asphalt Recycling Using FT-IR Spectroscopy. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/improving-asphalt-recycling-using-ft-ir-spectroscopy (accessed 2024-07-17).

Wetzel, W. Revolutionizing Dairy Safety: The Role of FT-IR Spectroscopy. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/revolutionizing-dairy-safety-the-role-of-ft-ir-spectroscopy (accessed 2024-07-17).

Wetzel, W. The Latest in Food and Beverage Analysis. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/the-latest-in-food-and-beverage-analysis (accessed 2024-07-17).