Applications of a New Single Reflection ATR Accessory

Introduction

Attenuated total reflection (ATR) is a method of obtaining a sample spectrum by contacting the sample to the prism and conducting the measurement. As even resin and rubber samples need not be thinly stretched or pulverized, it is one of the most frequently used infrared spectroscopy measurement methods. This Application News introduces the single reflection (infrared light is reflected once) ATR measurement accessory. In the past, the technique that was almost always adopted to increase sample absorption involved the use of a flat prism, and performing multiple reflections (bounces). However, with the development of more sensitive FTIR instruments, sufficient absorption can now be obtained with a single reflection. Therefore, measurement of small samples has become possible. Moreover, since the direct contact area is small, sufficient contact is possible, even with curved samples such as curved plastic.

September 5, 2007 GMT