TANGO FT-NIR SPECTROSCOPY

Significance of the Topic

NIR spectroscopy has become a cornerstone in modern analytical chemistry due to its speed, non-destructive nature and minimal sample preparation. Fast and reliable compositional analysis is critical across food, pharmaceutical, chemical and polymer industries for quality control, process monitoring and regulatory compliance.

Objectives and Study Overview

The TANGO FT-NIR spectrometer by Bruker Optics is designed to simplify NIR analysis for routine industrial use. Key aims include:

• Intuitive operation to reduce training time and user errors
• Robust performance for high-throughput environments
• Automated procedures to ensure consistent, precise measurements

Applied Methodology and Instrumentation

TANGO employs Fourier-transform near-infrared spectroscopy with the following methodological features:

• Direct transmissive measurements for liquids (20–80 °C), using an active heater/cooler and continuous temperature monitoring
• Diffuse reflectance for solids via a gold-coated integrating sphere, providing reproducible readings on heterogeneous samples
• Automated background alignment even with a sample in place, ensuring optimal signal stability

Instrumentation

The core instrumentation and design elements of TANGO include:

• Proven FT-NIR optics with robust interferometer mechanics (10-year warranty on moving parts)
• Compact footprint and three-sided access for flexible laboratory placement
• Swiveling, tilt-adjustable touchscreen interface available in 17 languages
• Automated background management and network connectivity supporting 21 CFR Part 11 compliance
• Seamless calibration transfer across existing Bruker Optics NIR platforms

Main Results and Discussion

Practical implementation of the TANGO system has demonstrated:

• Significant reduction in analysis time and user training requirements
• High reproducibility of both liquid and solid measurements under routine lab and at-line conditions
• Minimal maintenance downtime through quick-change light sources and desiccant cartridges
• Strong data integrity and audit trails supporting regulated environments

Benefits and Practical Applications

TANGO’s combination of ease-of-use and precision yields benefits such as:

• No sample pre-treatment or reagents required, lowering operational costs
• Enabling untrained staff to perform reliable analyses in food & beverage, feed, pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals and polymers
• Real-time process monitoring and rapid QC decisions in production lines

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Emerging opportunities for FT-NIR systems like TANGO include:

• Integration with machine learning for advanced predictive modeling of compositional data
• Cloud-based data management and remote diagnostics for decentralized labs
• Miniaturized and handheld NIR devices extending field applications
• Expansion into end-to-end digital workflows within Industry 4.0 frameworks

Conclusion

The TANGO FT-NIR spectrometer streamlines near-infrared analysis through automation, robust design and user-friendly operation. By delivering high precision with minimal training and maintenance, it addresses the core needs of modern analytical laboratories and industrial process control.