Agilent FTIR Forensics Analyzer Package: Lab-Quality FTIR ATR Analyzers, Inside or Outside the Lab

Význam tématu

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) ATR spectroscopy has become a cornerstone in forensic and hazardous material analysis due to its rapid identification capability and minimal sample preparation requirements. In field and laboratory scenarios, its ability to generate molecular fingerprints within seconds supports timely decision-making and enhances safety when dealing with unknown solids or liquids.

Cíle a přehled studie / článku

This article reviews the Agilent FTIR Forensics Analyzer Package, designed to deliver laboratory-quality FTIR ATR analysis both inside and outside conventional laboratories. It highlights two instrument configurations— the portable, battery-powered 4500a and the bench-mounted 5500a—along with comprehensive spectral libraries tailored to forensic and drug analysis. The aim is to evaluate performance, workflow efficiency, and practical utility in forensic applications.

Použitá metodika a instrumentace

The core technique employs single-reflection diamond attenuated total reflectance (ATR), offering chemical resistance and negligible sample preparation. Key instrument specifications include:

• Spectral range: 4000–650 cm–1
• Resolution: 2–32 cm–1
• Operating temperature: 0–50 °C
• Ruggedized interferometer design

Two analyzer formats are available:

• 4500a FTIR Forensics Analyzer: Portable, battery-operated (4 h runtime), weighs 6.8 kg, suitable for field use.
• 5500a FTIR Forensics Analyzer: Compact bench instrument, weighs 3.6 kg, optimized for laboratory or mobile lab deployment.

Analysis is managed through Agilent MicroLab PC software, providing an intuitive, method-driven interface with multilingual support.

Hlavní výsledky a diskuse

Extensive spectral libraries form the backbone of substance identification:

• ATR Forensics Library: Over 13 000 spectra covering biochemicals, white powders, explosives, food additives, and high-production volume chemicals.
• TICTAC ATR FTIR Drugs Library: 643 spectra focusing on new psychoactive substances (NPS), traditional drugs, and related adulterants or precursors.

Substance matching can be completed in under one minute, delivering high-quality hit scores. Optional hazard modules display GHS symbols, CAS numbers, and controlled-substance warnings. This integrated workflow minimizes user training and accelerates actionable insights.

Přínosy a praktické využití metody

The Agilent FTIR Forensics Analyzer simplifies on-scene and laboratory testing by combining high sensitivity and selectivity with zero-prep sampling. Applications include:

• Law enforcement: illicit drug screening and controlled substance verification.
• Cargo and border security: rapid inspection of suspicious powders and liquids.
• Hazardous materials response: immediate hazard identification and risk assessment.

Budoucí trendy a možnosti využití

Emerging directions for FTIR forensics analysis include cloud-based spectral libraries, artificial intelligence-driven spectral interpretation, integration with portable imaging systems, and expansion of real-time connectivity for collaborative field operations. Further development of miniaturized, low-cost sensors may broaden access to rapid forensic diagnostics.

Závěr

Agilent’s FTIR Forensics Analyzer Package delivers robust, lab-quality ATR spectroscopy in both portable and bench configurations. With comprehensive libraries, user-friendly software, and rapid identification workflows, it addresses critical needs in forensic and hazardous substance analysis. By minimizing sample preparation and streamlining data interpretation, it enhances both field and laboratory capabilities.

Reference

Agilent Technologies, Inc. (2022). Agilent FTIR Forensics Analyzer Package, Publication 5994-5259EN.