Instrumentation of IR Spectroscopy
Infrared (IR) spectroscopy is a powerful analytical technique used to identify and study chemical
substances based on their molecular vibrations. It operates in the infrared region of the electromagnetic
spectrum, typically between 4000 cm⁻¹ and 400 cm⁻¹, where different bonds in molecules absorb
characteristic frequencies of IR radiation.
Key Components of an IR Spectrometer
1. IR Source:
o The source generates a broad spectrum of infrared radiation. Common sources include:
Globar (silicon carbide): Emits infrared radiation over a broad range.
Nernst Glower: Often used in mid-IR spectrometers.
Tungsten or filament bulbs: In some instruments, especially for near-infrared.
2. Monochromator or Interferometer:
o Monochromator: Used in dispersive instruments (older models), it isolates specific
wavelengths of infrared light before passing it to the sample. It can be based on prisms
or gratings.
o Interferometer: Modern FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared) spectrometers use an
interferometer (typically a Michelson interferometer). This device splits the light into
two beams, which recombine after traveling different distances. The recombined light
creates an interference pattern that is later converted to a spectrum.
3. Sample Holder:
o The sample is placed in the IR path, where it absorbs some of the infrared radiation.
Sample holders can vary based on the form of the sample (solid, liquid, or gas).
Solid samples: Often pressed into a pellet with potassium bromide (KBr) or
mounted on a special holder.
Liquid samples: Placed between two IR-transparent windows, typically made of
sodium chloride (NaCl) or potassium bromide (KBr).
Gaseous samples: Introduced into a gas cell with windows made of materials
like KBr or CaF₂.
4. Detector:
o The detector measures the intensity of transmitted or reflected IR radiation after it
passes through the sample. Common detectors include:
Thermocouple: Measures the heat produced when IR light strikes a material.
Pyroelectric detectors: Respond to changes in temperature.
Deuterated triglycine sulfate (DTGS): A common detector in FTIR spectrometers.
MCT (Mercury-Cadmium-Telluride): Used for high sensitivity, especially in the
mid-IR range.
5. Computer and Software:
o The signal from the detector is processed by a computer and translated into an IR
spectrum. The software analyzes the spectrum, assigns peaks to specific molecular
vibrations, and provides the chemical structure information.
Working Principle of IR Spectroscopy
1. Absorption of IR Radiation:
o When IR radiation passes through a sample, some frequencies are absorbed by the
sample’s molecules, causing them to vibrate. The amount of absorption at each
frequency depends on the type of bonds and functional groups present in the molecule.
2. Sample and Reference Comparison:
o A reference (often just the empty sample holder) is used to account for the background
signal. The difference in intensity between the reference and the sample is recorded as
the absorbance.
3. Fourier Transform (in FTIR):
o In FTIR spectroscopy, the interferometer splits and recombines the IR light, generating
an interference pattern. This raw data, known as an interferogram, is processed using a
mathematical operation called Fourier Transform to convert the data into a spectrum.
IR Spectrum
The resulting spectrum shows the absorbed radiation as a function of the wavenumber (in cm⁻¹).
Peaks in the spectrum correspond to vibrational modes of the bonds in the sample.
Common Vibrational Modes
Stretching: Changes in the length of the bond (e.g., C-H stretching).
Bending: Changes in the angle between bonds (e.g., C-H bending).
Fingerprint Region: The area from approximately 600 to 1500 cm⁻¹, where complex molecular
vibrations appear. Each molecule has a unique "fingerprint" in this region.
Conclusion
The instrumentation of IR spectroscopy includes a radiation source, sample holder, monochromator or
interferometer, detector, and computer software. These components work together to measure the
absorption of IR light by a sample, which provides valuable molecular information, allowing the
identification of functional groups and molecular structures.
