FTIR testing can be used for any issue where identification or comparison of organic materials is needed. It’s a useful technique with applications across a range of industries.
For example, using FTIR analysis we can help you to:
- accurately identify a material
- compare or verify samples for quality control, monitoring or problem solving
- resolve failure issues, for example determining the cause of an unwanted residue by comparing samples of the residue and potential source materials
Our rapid testing service includes expert analysis of the FTIR results, giving you the insights you need make the right decisions for your project.
Depending on your requirements, FTIR analysis can be used on its own or alongside other analytical techniques, such as additional chemical analysis and failure analysis.
What is FTIR spectroscopy?
Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a type of absorption spectroscopy which uses infrared radiation to determine the chemical bonds within a molecule.
It has two main applications:
- identifying a material
- providing a comparison between two or more samples
How does FTIR spectroscopy work?
We use attenuated total reflectance (ATR), which is the type of FTIR used for solid materials.
The testing process involves placing a sample on the FTIR spectrometer and shining IR light onto it, usually through a diamond. The light hits the sample and is reflected back onto a detector.
The sample will absorb some frequencies of IR light, making bonds within the sample’s molecules vibrate.
The spectrometer scans across a spectral range, typically from 500 to 4,000 cm-1 , to look for these molecular vibrations, observed as a reduction in intensity of infrared light returning from the sample. The pattern of this reduction creates a unique signature which we use to identify or compare samples.

Carrying out FTIR spectroscopy in the lab
How are FTIR results interpreted?
FTIR results are presented as graphs which show the percentage transmission (the amount of light that is returned to the sensor) across the wavelengths of the infrared spectrum.
Each molecule or chemical structure produces a unique spectral fingerprint, which displays as a specific pattern of peaks and troughs on the graph. Our experts look in particular for the ‘fingerprint region’ of the IR spectrum for analysis.
We have libraries of spectra which we use to identify samples, or we can compare across different samples, depending on your needs.
What materials are suitable for FTIR testing?
We use this type of spectroscopy analysis for solid organic chemical compounds and materials, including plastics, polymers and elastomeric materials.
What are the advantages of FTIR testing?
FTIR spectroscopy requires minimal sample preparation, is fast and extremely accurate. We can carry out FTIR testing rapidly to suit your timeframes.

Each molecule or chemical structure produces a unique spectral fingerprint, which displays as a specific pattern of peaks and troughs on a graph
Meet our FTIR testing expert
Senior Consultant Rachel Triggs is our FTIR spectroscopy lead. Rachel has extensive experience of FTIR testing, having used this technique throughout her career across numerous industry projects. She is well placed to understand your requirements, get the data you need and provide insightful analysis.

Rachel Triggs
What we offer
- Free initial consultation and bespoke quote, which may include free practice tests to determine the best test plan – if you’re not sure exactly what you need, we can advise you.
- A choice of packages to suit your requirements.
- Tests tailored to your needs, run by specialist staff in our state-of-the-art labs.
- A comprehensive report including results and expert advice, plus a meeting to discuss the results.
Why choose nC2?
- A testing and analysis service of the highest quality.
- Access to specialised facilities and knowledge across the University of Southampton.
- Packages to suit your budget and requirements – whether you’re looking for a one-off test or support for a major project.
- Excellent customer service – we’ll keep you in the loop every step of the way.
- High levels of customer satisfaction.