Accessories for Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotometers and Raman Spectrophotometer

Importance of the Topic

The selection of appropriate accessories for Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectrophotometers is critical to unlocking the full analytical potential of these techniques. By tailoring the sampling interface—such as ATR prisms, reflectance modules, diffuse reflectance units, microscope objectives, gas cells, and liquid sample holders—analysts can achieve high sensitivity, reproducibility, and minimal sample preparation across solids, liquids, gels, films, powders, and microparticulates.

Objectives and Overview of the Document

This document provides an organized catalog of optional accessories compatible with Shimadzu FTIR systems (FTIR-8000 series, IRTracer-100, IRPrestige-21, IRXross, IRAffinity-1, IRSpirit) and infrared/Raman microscopes (AIMsight, AIRsight). It offers guidance on selecting attachments based on sample type, measurement mode (transmission, reflectance, ATR), required wavenumber range, and application-specific constraints such as spatial resolution, chemical compatibility, and automation.

Methodology and Instrumentation Used

FTIR and Raman instruments measure molecular vibrations by detecting absorbed or scattered light. Key accessory categories include:

• ATR Attachments: Single-reflection (diamond, ZnSe, Ge prisms) and multi-reflection options, horizontal ATR, variable incidence angles for surface analysis.
• Specular Reflectance Modules: SRM and RAS attachments with Kramers-Kronig conversion and grid polarizers for thin film on metal surfaces.
• Diffuse Reflectance Units: DRS-8000 series, SiC sampling holders, heated vacuum cells for powders and trace solids.
• Microscope Accessories: AIMsight/AIRsight infrared and Raman microscopes, ATR objective mirrors, micro vise holders, pressure sensors, grazing angle objectives, high-sensitivity detectors (T2SL, TEC-MCT).
• Automated Sampling: Sample changers (ASC-8000T, Sample Switcher 21), purge control kits, dry air generators for unattended high-throughput analysis.
• Transmission and Gas Cells: Film and clip holders (13/25 mm), fixed-thickness and demountable liquid cells, gas cells (5 cm, 10 cm, long-path), diamond compression cells.
• Pellet Preparation: Mini hand press (MHP-1), evacuable dies, hydraulic presses, vacuum pumps and consumables for KBr pellet techniques.
• Near-Infrared Options: NIR Kit for IRTracer/IRPrestige, integrating sphere (IntegratIR A), diffuse reflectance unit (UpIR A).
• Software Enhancements: Rapid Scan, Time Course, Curve-Fitting, PLS Quantitation, 3D Processing, High-Speed Mapping, Particle Analysis, AIMsolution DB/CS, KnowItAll integration.

Main Results and Discussion

The catalog presents over fifty specialized accessories that enable broad analytical flexibility:

• Non-destructive ATR measurement of rubbers, plastics, films, powders down to micrometer depths.
• Specular and diffuse reflectance for coatings, microplastics, and trace solids without sample slicing.
• Infrared and Raman microscopy with down to 3 µm spatial resolution and automated contaminant recognition.
• Automated high-throughput workflows with sample changers and software macros for consistent, unattended operation.
• Quantitative NIR analysis for liquids, powders, and finished goods using integrating spheres and fiber probes.
• Advanced chemometric and time-resolved measurements via dedicated software modules.

Benefits and Practical Applications of the Methods

By matching accessories to sample characteristics and analytical goals, laboratories can achieve:

• Minimal sample preparation—direct measurement of vials, bags, films and raw materials.
• Enhanced sensitivity—deep penetration ATR for high-refractive samples, high-reflectance gas cells for low-concentration gases.
• Improved reproducibility—automatic accessory recognition, torque-limited ATR clamps, polished cell windows.
• Trace analysis—micro-ATR prisms, micro-reflectance, heated vacuum cells for catalytic studies, microplastic quantitation.
• Quality control—validation film standards, library support, PLS calibration for component quantitation.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Emerging directions include:

• Integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning for automated spectral interpretation and anomaly detection.
• Cryogen-free and ultrafast detectors for enhanced sensitivity and dynamic range.
• Miniaturized and fiber-optic probes for in-situ process monitoring, remote sensing, and point-of-care applications.
• Expansion of microplastic and nanomaterial analysis with advanced particle recognition algorithms.
• High-throughput combinatorial screening using automated macros and robotics.

Conclusion

Shimadzu’s comprehensive accessory lineup provides tailored solutions for FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, enabling analysts to address diverse sample forms, measurement modes, and application challenges. Through careful selection of prisms, cells, sampling modules, and software, users can maximize data quality, efficiency, and automation in research, quality control, and industrial environments.

Reference

• Shimadzu Corporation. Accessories for Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotometers and Raman Spectrophotometer, Catalog C103-E147A.