Methods / FTIR spectroscopy

FTIR spectroscopy

Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) is an analytical technique used to identify the functional groups of a molecule. FTIR analysis is suitable for liquids, solids, and gases with covalent bonds.

FTIR spectrum
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Some of our FTIR services

Identification of chemical groups with FTIR (solid samples)

Qualitative identification of chemical groups in solid samples by Attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). Results will be delivered as an FTIR spectrum. In addition, a comparison to an FTIR library will be provided. The method is not quantitative, but it can be used to identify the main chemical components of the sample.
170 €
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Microplastics in clean water samples or bottles (ISO/DIS 16094-2)

ISO/DIS 16094-2
Determination of microplastic content in clean water samples with vibrational spectroscopy methods. The analytical report will list different types of polymers detected and their distribution by size (1 μm to 5 000 µm with µRaman and 10 µm to 5 000 µm with µFTIR). There are two options for how the analysis can be conducted: Acrredited analysis with µFTIR microscopy according to ISO/DIS 16094-2, Accredited in-house Raman microscopy method. Please let us know the preferred approach when requesting an offer or placing an order. The displayed price applies to clean drinking water or even purer grades of water only, as it does not include digestion pre-treatment. Please note that natural waters are handled as wastewater due to the possible presence of solid particles. Our experts are happy to provide a quote for the analysis of other matrices.
235 €
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Microplastics in blood and other samples of human origin

Quantification and characterization of microplastics present in biological samples of human origin with FTIR spectroscopy. The results will include the number of microplastic particles per 1 mL of sample, as well as information on plastic types and average particle size. Due to the complex matrix, the appropriate digestion, homogenization, and filtration steps will need to be decided on a case-by-case basis. The extent of the required sample preparation may affect the price. Please contact our experts through the form below to request an offer for your analysis project.
1,050 €
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Microplastics on filter

Microplastics analysis with µFTIR directly from a suitable filter. The preferred filter is Anodisc filter discs (0.2 μm pore size, 25 mm diameter). The displayed price does not include any pretreatment or other additional steps. Please check the suitability of the filter with the testing expert before ordering! The results of the analysis will specify different types of polymers by size, for example, 10–50 µm, 50–100 µm, 100–500 µm, and >500 µm.
235 €
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Microplastics in biological samples of animal origin

Determination of microplastics in biological samples of animal origin using FTIR. The results of the analysis will specify different types of polymers by size. These projects are always handled on a case-by-case basis. Please contact our experts using the form below to discuss the suitability of the analysis for your samples.
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Microplastics in natural water or wastewater with the micro-FTIR method

ISO 24187
Determination of microplastics in wastewater using FTIR microspectroscopy. The results of the analysis will specify different types of polymers by size, for example, 10–50 µm, 50–100 µm, 100–500 µm, and >500 µm. This analysis is suitable for natural waters and typical wastewater samples. Please note that both of these matrices need digestion sample preparation due to the possible solid particles in the samples. For special water matrices (process water, industrial water, etc.), please contact the method expert before ordering.
390 €
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Microplastics in soil, sludge or sediment with microspectroscopy methods

Determination of microplastics in soil, sludge, or sediment using µRaman or µFTIR spectroscopy. The results will specify different types of polymers by size, for example, 1–50 µm, 50–100 µm, 100–500 µm, and >500 µm. Due to the challenging matrix, the analysis cannot be ordered online. Please contact our experts to describe your samples, and we'll get back to you with an offer.
410 €
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Identification of chemical groups with FTIR (aqueous solution samples)

Identification of chemical groups in aqueous solutions using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Results will be delivered as raw data and spectra. A batch includes the analysis of 1–3 samples.
352 €
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Prices excluding VAT.

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What is FTIR analysis used for?

FTIR is a versatile analytical tool for material characterization, capable of identifying chemical components in solid, aqueous, and gaseous matrices. Some popular applications of FTIR include the following:

  • Identifying microplastics in water, other environmental samples, and complex biological matrices (using FTIR microscopy). The results are expressed as particle counts by plastic type and size range.

  • Determining the chemical identity of polymers and detecting the presence of additives and contaminants.

  • Characterization of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and detection of organic impurities in the pharmaceutical industry.

  • Verification of raw material composition and ingredient authenticity in the food industry.

  • In-depth characterization of lignin and other biomass samples.

  • Molecular analysis of lubricants and hydraulic fluids by the ASTM E2412 standard method.

FTIR can also be coupled with a thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) to characterize the gases that are released when a sample is heated. This is known as evolved gas analysis (EGA).

What is the operating principle of FTIR?

During FTIR analysis, the material (solid, liquid, or gas) is subjected to an infrared light spectrum. When different molecules absorb IR light, molecular vibration occurs. Different molecules and bonds vibrate in a way characteristic to them, leading to different amounts of light being absorbed at specific wavelengths depending on the sample's composition.

The amount of IR light that passes through the sample is measured with a detector, and the data is converted to a spectrum-friendly form via a mathematical process called the Fourier transform. The final spectrum represents light intensity as a function of wavenumber.

Advantages of FTIR compared to traditional IR spectroscopy

FTIR allows precise and simultaneous spectral data collection with a wide spectral range, made possible by fixed and movable mirrors in the interferometer. The broad spectral range allows multiple frequencies of light to be directed at the sample at once, making FTIR more effective time-wise when compared to a traditional dispersive IR spectroscopy technique. FTIR also has a higher signal-to-noise ratio and high wavelength precision, making it more accurate than conventional IR spectroscopy.

Sample preparation

Often, FTIR measurement does not require any sample preparation, especially when using the ATR-FTIR setup. Tricky samples can be ground with IR-transparent potassium bromide (KBr) and pressed into a pellet form. Liquids can either be measured directly, or an IR-transparent solvent can be used to prepare a dilution. Gas samples are placed in a cylinder-shaped cell with IR-transparent windows.

Do you need FTIR analysis services?

Measurlabs offers laboratory testing with several FTIR setups, including FTIR microscopy, FTIR-TGA, and ATR-FTIR. Our logistics are optimized to handle large sample batches and routine analyses swiftly. In addition, we offer support for in-depth research projects, including access to any other analytical techniques your project might require. Contact us using the form below to start the discussion, and we'll prepare a customized quote to address all your testing needs.

Suitable sample matrices

  • Liquid, solid and gaseous materials
  • Organic materials, such as plastic, paper, cardboard, biomass and solvents
  • Inorganic compounds that absorb IR light

Ideal uses of FTIR spectroscopy

  • Identification of functional groups
  • Identification of unknown materials
  • Comparing the chemical composition of different chemicals and materials

Ask for an offer

Fill in the form, and we'll reply in one business day.

Answering the following questions helps us prepare an offer for you faster:

  • How many samples do you have and what is the sample material?
  • Do you have a recurring need for these tests? If yes, how often and for how many samples at a time?

Have questions or need help? Email us at or call our sales team.

Frequently asked questions

What is FTIR spectroscopy commonly used for?

This technique is used to identify the functional groups present in the sample. FTIR is suitable for the identification of polymeric materials and for comparing the chemical composition of different chemicals and materials.

What are the limitations of FTIR?

Metals do not absorb light in the IR range and are therefore not suitable for FTIR spectroscopy. Complex molecules and their mixtures cannot be reliably identified. FTIR also cannot detect diatomic or noble gases, such as N2 or He.

What kinds of samples can be analysed using FTIR?

FTIR spectroscopy is suitable for solids, liquids and gases.

What is Measurlabs?

Measurlabs offers a variety of laboratory analyses for product developers and quality managers. We perform some of the analyses in our own lab, but mostly we outsource them to carefully selected partner laboratories. This way we can send each sample to the lab that is best suited for the purpose, and offer high-quality analyses with more than a thousand different methods to our clients.

How does the service work?

When you contact us through our contact form or by email, one of our specialists will take ownership of your case and answer your query. You get an offer with all the necessary details about the analysis, and can send your samples to the indicated address. We will then take care of sending your samples to the correct laboratories and write a clear report on the results for you.

How do I send my samples?

Samples are usually delivered to our laboratory via courier. Contact us for further details before sending samples.