FTIR-Microscopy

FTIR-microscopy is a powerful analytical tool for identifying and imaging chemical compositions of microscopic samples with high spatial resolution.

FTIR-microscopy is a technique that combines Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and microscopy to analyze the chemical composition of a sample at a microscopic level. It allows for the spatially resolved analysis of samples by using an infrared beam to obtain spectra of individual points on the sample surface. This technique is often used in materials science, forensics, pharmaceuticals, and biology to provide valuable information about the structure and composition of materials, as well as the distribution of different chemical components within a sample.

Fig. 1. Image of FTIR-microscopy instrument.

How does FTIR-Microscopy Work?

In FTIR-microscopy, a sample is placed under the microscope and infrared light will focus onto a small area of the sample. The infrared light interacts with the sample, causing different chemical components to absorb different wavelengths of light. The infrared absorption spectrum is then measured and used to identify and map the distribution of different chemical components within the sample.

Characteristics of FTIR-Microscopy

High spatial resolution: FTIR-microscopy allows for the analysis of samples at a high spatial resolution, typically in the range of a few micrometers to tens of micrometers.
Chemical specificity: FTIR-microscopy provides detailed information about the chemical composition of a sample, allowing for the identification of specific functional groups and molecular species.
Versatility: FTIR-microscopy can be used to analyze a wide range of sample types, including solids, liquids, and gels. It can also be used to analyze samples in various forms, such as thin films, powders, and fibers.
High sensitivity: FTIR-microscopy can detect trace amounts of components in a sample, making it a powerful tool for the analysis of complex materials.
Imaging capabilities: FTIR-microscopy can be used to generate chemical maps of samples, providing spatially resolved information about the distribution of different chemical species within a sample.

What is FTIR-Microscopy Used For?

FT-IR-microscopy is very suitable for analysis of small, thin samples or sample that needs precise measurements. This makes it the go-to technique for investigating particles, films, and coatings in a wide range of industries such as pharmaceuticals, forensic science, environmental science, materials science, and many more, for various purposes such as quality control, failure analysis, competitor analysis and research. Some examples are below.

In environmental science, FTIR-microscopy is crucial for the study of composition of microplastic particles in water, soil, and air, which plays a key role in understanding the impacts of pollution.
In pharmaceutical industry: FTIR-microscopy is used in the pharmaceutical industry for the analysis of drug formulations, polymorphs, and impurities, which is critical to understanding drug safety and compliance.
In materials science: FTIR-microscopy is widely used in polymers films and coating. By determining the composition and thickness of layers in multilayer and composite materials, FTIR ensures that materials are made to specification and are free from defects. By analyzing thin coatings such as anti-corrosion coatings on metals, adhesive layers on packaging, and diamond coatings on drill bits. It is used to check for uniformity and contamination in these coatings. Moreover, it is also used for studying ceramics, and semiconductors.
In fields like forensics: FTIR-microscopy can be used in forensic science to analyze trace evidence such as fibers, paints, and residues. It can help in identifying the composition of materials and linking them to a specific source or origin.

Application of FTIR-Microscopy in Deformulation

In deformulation, like the FTIR, FTIR-Microscopy allows for the analysis of chemical composition and molecular structure of a sample, thus providing precise information about different components of product. But the difference is that it is more advantageous in small and thin samples (such as thin film) and in determination of impurities.

How We Can Help You?

Alfa Chemistry has a high-level understanding of FTIR-Microscopy and its various applications. Our team of skilled professionals are adept at operating FTIR-Microscopy equipment, conducting in-depth analysis with precision and delivering quality results to drive your research or manufacturing goals forward. We are also experts in the field of deformulation. Whether you are into pharmaceuticals, forensics, materials science, as well as any field requiring critical analysis, or require deformulation of drug, polymer film, coating, complex materials, laminates, composite materials and varnishes, we are here to help your project based on our technical expertise and experience in FTIR-Microscopy. And we provide comprehensive support, from sample preparation to data analysis and interpretation.

Please kindly note that our products and services are for research use only.