Infrared Spectroscopy

A Mattson Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer is used to chemically characterize the materials by means of their absorbance of light. In the mid-infrared region, 400 to 4000 cm -1 , the mechanism of absorbance is mainly due to molecular vibrations--e.g., stretching, bending molecular motions. These absorbances are characteristic of specific molecular functional groups thus the spectra aid in the identification of compounds. Infrared spectra may also be used to monitor chemical changes in materials.

Various optical attachments support the study of powders, surfaces, liquids and polymers. An infrared microscope allows spectra to be obtained from small areas.

Contact:

Jim Beecher
(608) 231-9475
jbeecher@fs.fed.us
or
Kolby Hirth
(608) 231-9451
khirth@fs.fed.us