Micro-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (Micro-FTIR)

Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) is a technique used to obtain an infrared spectrum of absorption or emission of a solid, liquid, or gas. Micro-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (Micro-FTIR) combines a microscope with an FTIR instrument, providing even more information about the chemical fingerprints for both organic and inorganic compounds that are components in trace evidence.

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<strong>Micro-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (Micro-FTIR)</strong>

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Overview
Scope, Applications, and Benefits
Test Process
Specifications
Instrumentation
Results and Deliverables

Overview

Micro-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (Micro-FTIR) is an advanced technique that combines infrared spectroscopy and microscopy. It is useful in identifying and determining the composition of materials at the micro-level.

The Micro-FTIR technique is very important in analysing inclusions, contaminants, coatings, films, or microsamples that cannot be easily analysed with conventional FTIR. This is because, with conventional FTIR, we can pass an infrared beam through a microscope, thus analysing materials at the micro-level without any damage.

Scope, Applications, and Benefits

Scope

Micro-FTIR, also referred to as Fourier Transform Infrared Microscopy, is an approach that has been developed specifically with the aim of analysing small quantities. It combines infrared and microscopy, enabling scientists to identify unknown materials, analyse functions, and detect contaminants in small quantities. This approach is particularly useful in cases where there is limited sample availability.

Applications

Analysis of fibres, paints, and residues
Polymer and composite microanalysis
Coatings and thin film characterisation
Micro-contaminant identification in cosmetics and industrial materials
Failure analysis of small components
Research and development of microscale materials

Benefits

Enables chemical analysis at micrometre-scale regions
Non-destructive testing of micro-samples
Identifies contaminants or inclusions not detectable by bulk FTIR
Supports quality control of small components
Provides standardised spectral identification
Improves accuracy in forensic and materials investigations
Compatible with conventional FTIR databases

Test Process

Sample Preparation & Mounting

Micro-samples are mounted on IR-transparent slides or reflective substrates.

Microscope Alignment & Measurement

Sample is positioned, focused, and irradiated with an IR beam.

Spectral Acquisition

Interferograms are collected and converted into frequency-domain spectra.

Data Analysis

Spectra are compared with reference databases to identify chemical composition and functional groups.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Details
Applicable Materials	Solids, powders, coatings, thin films, micro-samples
Frequency Range	Mid-IR: 4000–50 cm⁻¹; Near-IR applicable above 4000 cm⁻¹
Spatial Resolution	Typically 10–50 µm depending on aperture and optics
Output Format	% Transmission or % Reflectance vs Wavenumber (cm⁻¹) spectrum
Analysis Type	Qualitative and quantitative (if applicable)
Data Requirement	Reference spectral database for identification

Instrumentation Used for Testing

FTIR spectrometer with microscope attachment
IR microscope with imaging capabilities
ATR, DRIFTS, or reflective accessories for microanalysis
IR-transparent slides or reflective substrates
Microsample preparation tools (microtome, scalpel, or micro-press)
Data acquisition and spectral analysis software
Calibration standards for wavelength and intensity

Results and Deliverables

FTIR spectrum of micro-scale regions
Functional group and molecular identification
Detection and analysis of micro-contaminants or inclusions
Thin film or coating composition analysis
Comparative spectral matching reports
Reports

Why Choose Infinita Lab for Micro-FTIR?

Infinita Lab is a leading provider of Micro-FTIR and streamlined material testing services, addressing the critical challenges faced by emerging businesses and established enterprises. With access to a vast network of over 2,000+ accredited partner labs across the United States, Infinita Lab ensures rapid, accurate, and cost-effective testing solutions. The company’s unique value proposition includes comprehensive project management, confidentiality assurance, and seamless communication through a Single Point of Contact (SPOC) model. By eliminating inefficiencies in traditional material testing workflows, Infinita Lab accelerates research and development (R&D) processes.

Looking for a trusted partner to achieve your research goals? Schedule a meeting with us, send us a request, or call us at (888) 878-3090 to learn more about our services and how we can support you. Request a Quote

Frequently Asked Questions

Micro-FTIR is a technique that combines Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy with optical microscopy. This allows us to perform a chemical analysis on a region as small as a micrometres. We can identify certain compounds and contaminants in these small regions.

Unlike the conventional FTIR, where a sample is analysed in its macro form, Micro-FTIR analyses a small microscopic region on the sample.

The resolution range is between 10 and 50 micrometres, and it depends on the microscope and the size of the aperture.

Preparation is minimal. Small samples are placed on IR-transparent slides or a reflective substrate. For some solids/thin films, microtomy may be performed.

Quantitative results are attainable with calibration standards and proper sampling techniques. It is possible to modify the guidelines of ASTM E168 for quantitative FTIR analysis for micro-samples.