FTIR Spectra

FTIR spectroscopy (Fourier-Transform Infrared) measures how molecules absorb infrared light at specific frequencies corresponding to vibrational modes of chemical bonds. The resulting spectrum acts as a molecular fingerprint — each peak position, shape, and intensity encodes information about functional groups and molecular structure. FTIR is non-destructive, requires minimal sample preparation, and works with solids, liquids, and gases.

Functional group identification through an infrared spectral database is central to analytical chemistry, polymer science, forensics, pharmaceutical QC, and environmental monitoring. FTIR excels at distinguishing organic compounds, identifying polymer types, detecting contaminants, and verifying raw-material identity. Its complementary relationship with Raman spectroscopy means the two techniques together cover virtually all vibrational information a molecule can reveal.

SpectralBench's FTIR reference library includes minerals, organics, polymers, and synthetic materials sourced from the USGS Spectral Library and other curated databases. Browse interactive spectra, examine absorption bands, and download data as CSV or JCAMP-DX for spectral matching in your own workflows.