Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) is a fast and accurate method for analyzing and quality control of industrially produced polymers. Statements can be made about product quality and whether a product is within specification. FTIR spectroscopy can also be used to analyze microscopically small samples such as particles, inclusions and fibers.
The method of "attenuated total reflection" (ATR) is often used to examine the surface of opaque materials such as paint layers or polymer films. The samples are brought into contact with a diamond crystal with a high refractive index. Since the radiation is guided by total reflection at the interface of the ATR crystal, it only comes into contact with the surface of the sample. The ATR technique enables IR spectra to be recorded for samples that are insoluble in non-aqueous solvents and do not allow for KBr pressing.
