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[September 2006]
New Concept On-Site IR Analysis Instrument
The InfraSpec Variable Filter Array (VFA) IR Spectrometer from Wilks Enterprise Inc (South Norwalk, CT, USA) is described as a new concept instrument that enables the user to obtain infrared spectra on a variety of materials wherever they occur - in the production plant, in the field or in the lab.
The new InfraSpec VFA-IR Spectrometer utilises a patented design consisting of an ATR sample plate with an elongated, pulsable source mounted close to one end and a linear variable filter (LVF) attached to a detector array mounted close to the other. The net result is a very compact spectrometer with no moving parts, no optical path exposed to air and capable of producing mid IR spectra on powders, films, liquids, slurries, semi-solids and solid surfaces. The detector array has 64 elements giving an approximate 40 wave number resolution in the mid-IR. A transmission variable filter array is also available for sealed cells, cuvettes or card readers.The InfraSpec VFA-IR Spectrometer is operated by a user friendly PC programme - similar to that of an FT-IR. In addition to generating spectra, the programme options include the ability to create calibration tables for quantitative analysis and to build libraries for materials verification. A simplified interface makes analysis easy for non-technically trained personnel. It is said to be the ideal choice for supplementing the capabilities of FT-IR Spectrometers in areas where it is not practical or cost effective to use such sophisticated and costly instrumentation.
The mid IR is the ideal spectral region for quantifying key components in a product. An important use of mid-IR spectral data has been to identify materials. The rugged and portable InfraSpec VFA-IR Spectrometer is well suited for this application because it can be placed at the receiving dock or in the production area. Spectra of materials can be stored in the InfraSpec software programme. Materials can be verified in minutes by in-plant personnel with a simple pass/fail screen.
www.wilksir.com
ENDS