Get reliable FTIR testing and analysis services from US Corrosion’s Houston laboratory. Identify chemical compounds, troubleshoot materials, and enhance asset integrity.
What is FTIR Testing?
Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy is an analytical technique used to identify organic, polymeric, and in some cases, inorganic materials. By measuring how different wavelengths of infrared light are absorbed by a sample, FTIR provides a unique “fingerprint” that reveals its molecular composition. It’s commonly used for assessing different polymers, contaminants, and effects from corrosion testing.
Image: FTIR Testing of a red gasket specimen by US Corrosion Services.
Why Use US Corrosion for FTIR Testing?
- Cutting-Edge Equipment
Our Houston laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art FTIR spectrometers, ensuring high-resolution data and rapid turnaround times. - Experienced Team
Our chemists and materials scientists bring decades of hands-on experience in corrosion analysis and polymer characterization. We interpret FTIR data with a deep understanding of real-world applications. - Flexible Testing Approach
We handle a wide variety of sample types—from coating flakes and residues to polymers, lubricants, and unknown deposits—tailoring the methodology to your specific project needs. - Corrosion-Focused Expertise
Unlike general-purpose labs, US Corrosion specializes in asset integrity and materials performance. We interpret FTIR data in the context of corrosion prevention and root-cause failure assessments.
The Thermo Nicolet FTIR testing machine we utilize is shown below, which is regularly serviced and calibrated. In most cases we can provide 48 or even 24-hour turnaround – contact us to find out more.
Thertmo Nicolet FTIR Testing Machine
Typical FTIR Testing Applications
FTIR is used for a wide range of applications. A few common ones are listed below. Our experts can help with these and other uses:
- Coating Failure Analysis: Identify contaminants, cure issues, or degradation byproducts in protective coatings that may lead to flaking or corrosion underfilm.
- Polymers & Plastics Characterization: Verify material composition, detect additives, or confirm the presence of plasticizers and stabilizers.
- Deposit and Residue Identification: Determine the organic or inorganic nature of unexpected deposits on heat exchangers, pipelines, or reaction vessels.
- Quality Control & Verification: Ensure raw materials and final products (e.g., adhesives, sealants, elastomers) meet specifications before being placed in service.
The US Corrosion FTIR Testing Process
- Sample Preparation
- Solid samples (e.g., flakes, films) are collected and cleaned (if needed).
- Liquid samples can be analyzed using ATR (Attenuated Total Reflectance) or specialized cells.
- Powders may require KBr pellet pressing or ATR techniques.
- Spectral Acquisition
- We capture infrared spectra across the relevant wavenumber range (usually 400–4000 cm⁻¹).
- We apply baseline correction and normalization for clear, high-quality results.
- Data Interpretation
- Our experts compare the sample’s spectral fingerprint to comprehensive reference libraries to identify chemical compounds.
- We focus on functional groups (e.g., C–H, C=O, O–H) and characteristic peaks to pinpoint organic structures or inorganic signatures.
- Reporting & Recommendations
- We deliver detailed reports including:
- Peak assignments and compound identification
- Possible contamination sources or degradation pathways
- Actionable advice for corrosion control or material selection
- If needed, we integrate FTIR with other methods (e.g., SEM/EDS, XRD, DSC) to provide a multidisciplinary perspective.
- We deliver detailed reports including:
Our experts deal with all kinds of materials – contact us to see if we can help you or for more information!