Infrared (IR/FTIR) Spectroscopy Testing – ASTM E1252, E168
ASTM E1252 recommends techniques for performing Qualitative analysis by Infra-Red (IR) spectroscopy while ASTM E168 deals with quantitative aspects including computer-based and manual calculations. Molecules that absorb infra-red radiation can be detected by their characteristic IR spectra.
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- Overview
- Scope, Applications, and Benefits
- Test Process
- Specifications
- Instrumentation
- Results and Deliverables
Overview
ASTM E1252 and ASTM E168 are standardized practices for infrared (IR) spectroscopy, which can be carried out using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR).
FTIR is based on the principle that molecules absorb infrared radiation at specific frequencies corresponding to their chemical bonds and functional groups. The absorbed infrared radiation is transformed from the time domain to the frequency domain using a Fourier Transform. The obtained spectrum is then used to identify molecular structures based on a reference spectral database.
ASTM E1252 specifies general practices for IR spectroscopy in the mid-IR region (4000 cm⁻¹ to 50 cm⁻¹) and can also be applied in the near-IR region. ASTM E168 specifies recommendations for quantitative analysis, such as preparation, calibration, and calculation methods.
Scope, Applications, and Benefits
Scope
ASTM E1252 applies to the following IR techniques:
- Transmission
- Attenuated Total Reflection (ATR)
- Diffuse Reflectance (DRIFTS)
- Specular Reflectance
Applicable frequency range:
4000 cm⁻¹ to 50 cm⁻¹ (mid-infrared)
Also applicable above 4000 cm⁻¹ (near-infrared region)
ASTM E168 provides guidance for quantitative IR analysis including sample preparation and calibration methods.
Applications
- Identification of unknown organic and inorganic compounds
- Polymer characterization
- Functional group analysis
- Contamination detection
- Quality control testing
- Failure analysis
- Coating and thin film evaluation
- Research and development of complex molecular systems
- Gas and liquid analysis
Benefits
- Rapid and non-destructive testing
- Accurate molecular identification
- Detection of impurities and contaminants
- Suitable for solids, liquids, and gases
- Minimal sample preparation (especially with ATR)
- Applicable to polymers and complex materials
- Standardized testing methodology
- Supports regulatory and quality compliance
Test Process
Sample Placement
Prepare and position sample (Transmission / ATR / DRIFTS / Reflection).
1IR Interaction
IR beam interacts with sample; detector records signal.
2Fourier Transform
Interferogram converted to frequency-domain spectrum.
3Spectral Analysis
Spectrum compared with reference database for identification.
4Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 4000–50 cm⁻¹ (mid-IR); applicable above 4000 cm⁻¹ (near-IR) |
| Output Format | % Transmission vs Wavenumber (cm⁻¹) spectrum |
| Analysis Type | Qualitative and Quantitative |
| Data Requirement | Reference spectral database |
| Applicable Phases | Solids, Liquids, Gases |
Instrumentation Used for Testing
- FTIR spectrometer
- IR source
- Interferometer
- ATR crystal (for ATR method)
- DRIFTS accessory (for diffuse reflectance)
- Specular reflectance accessory
- Sample holders and pellets press (for transmission)
- Spectral database software
- Data analysis software
Results and Deliverables
- FTIR spectrum (% transmission vs wavenumber)
- Functional group identification
- Molecular fingerprint analysis
- Contamination detection report
- Quantitative concentration data (if applicable under ASTM E168)
- Comparative spectral matching results
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