Spotlight 200i FT-IR Microscopy System with Spectrum Two (Perkin Elmer)

Vibrational Spectroscopy (Infrared and Raman Spectroscopy) – Spectrum GX (Perkin Elmer) Infrared and Raman spectroscopy are valuable tools in the determination of the chemical composition due the characteristic absorption bands of functional groups in the IR area. Our labs are applying this technique on a routine basis for cellulose model films (ATR-IR) and bulk materials (fibers, pulps, cellophane films) The analysis comprises the identification of carboxy groups, amines, ketones, aldehydes as well as additives such as inorganic components. In some cases, it can be used for the determination of the degree of substitution of cellulose derivatives. Also the water content (1650 cm-1), can be estimated with this method. In addition, structural changes can be followed in the IR spectrum due to characteristic bands which determine the hydrogen bonding mode in the different cellulose cryst index, al structures. The ratio of certain bands can be used to determine crystallinity indexes (total crystallinity index, lateral order index, hydrogen bond index). In a similar manner, Raman can give additional information on the crystallinity of cellulose derivatives. We also have expertise on deuteration on cellulose to elucidate the fraction of mobile water in the samples. Suitable samples: fibers, pulps, films, model surfaces in dry and swollen state.