Introduction to IR Spectroscopy

Spectroscopy can be defined as the interaction between matter and light. Infrared spectroscopy is a very powerful technique which uses electromagnetic radiation in the infrared region for the determination and identification of molecular structure, as well as having various quantitative applications within analytical chemistry.

This module explores the theory behind infrared spectroscopy, instrument operation and useful applications of the technique.

Topics include:

• Introduction to IR spectroscopy
• Electromagnetic spectrum
• Electromagnetic radiation and spectroscopy
• Infrared regions
• Molecular vibrations
• Calculation of molecular vibrations
• Infrared active modes
• Absorption considerations
• The IR spectrum
• Infrared absorption signals
• Dispersive IR instruments
• FTIR instruments
• FTIR operation
• Sample preparation
• Attenuated total reflectance (ATR)
• Applications of IR spectroscopy