ATR Crystals and Prisms
Attenuated Total Refection (ATR) prisms operate by measuring the changes that occur in a totally reflected infrared beam when the beam comes in contact with a sample. WIth the ATR method, light penetration into the sample for total reflection is dependent on the refractive index of the prism and the sample, the wavelength and also the incidence angle. ATR is the best choice for solids, gels, pastes and liquid samples.
Advantages:
With ATR crystals there is minimum time for sampling preparation, easy cleaning and short sampling time. On top of this, the sample will not corrode the ATR prisms.
Drawbacks:
ATR is not ideal for analyzing bulk samples and the crystals must be cleaned between sampling to avoid cross-contamination. Moreover, ATR will only give you a surface measurement, and is not ideal if there is a non-homogenous sample.
The materials most commonly used are ZnSe, Ge and KRS-5 and the most common configurations are trapezoids, prism rods and paralellograms. If you are looking for something that we don’t have please contact us here.
ATR Internal Reflection Parallelogram
ATR Internal Reflection Parallelogram
ATR Parallelograms in Infrared Spectroscopy: Versatile Sampling for Molecular Analysis
ATR (Attenuated Total Reflection) spectroscopy is a powerful analytical technique used to identify and characterize materials based on their molecular vibrations. A key component of ATR spectroscopy is the ATR parallelogram, also known as the ATR crystal or ATR prism. These specialized optical components play a crucial role in facilitating efficient sampling and analysis of a wide range of liquid and solid samples. In this article, we will explore the significance of ATR parallelograms in infrared spectroscopy and their role in providing versatile and non-destructive molecular analysis.
ATR Parallelograms: An Efficient Sampling Tool
ATR parallelograms are precisely designed crystals with a parallelogram cross-section, allowing for efficient total internal reflection of infrared light. The most common shapes include rectangular or trapezoidal ATR crystals, carefully crafted to ensure optimal interaction with the sample surface.
Working Principle of ATR Spectroscopy
The operation of ATR parallelograms is based on the principle of total internal reflection. When an infrared beam is directed into the ATR crystal at an angle greater than the critical angle, it experiences total internal reflection within the crystal. As a result, an evanescent wave is generated at the crystal-sample interface, extending into the sample in contact with the crystal.
Versatile Applications of ATR Parallelograms
The versatility of ATR parallelograms in infrared spectroscopy stems from their ability to analyze a diverse range of samples with minimal or no sample preparation. Unlike traditional transmission methods, ATR spectroscopy allows for the analysis of liquids, solids, powders, and films without the need for complex preparation procedures.
Advantages of ATR Spectroscopy with Parallelogram Crystals
ATR spectroscopy with parallelogram crystals offers several advantages:
Minimal Sample Preparation: ATR spectroscopy reduces the need for extensive sample preparation, saving time and resources.
Wide Sampling Range: ATR parallelograms can analyze various sample types, making them suitable for applications across different industries.
Non-destructive Analysis: ATR spectroscopy is non-destructive, preserving the sample for further analysis if required.
Enhanced Sensitivity: The interaction of the evanescent wave with the sample surface provides higher sensitivity, allowing for the analysis of samples with low concentration or weak signals.
Finding the right optical window can be an exercise in choice fatigue. Let us help!