DIAMOND ATR ACCESSORY FOR THE AGILENT CARY 630 FTIR

Význam tématu

Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) is a cornerstone technique in infrared spectroscopy, enabling rapid, non-destructive analysis of solids, liquids and gels without elaborate sample preparation. Diamond ATR crystals combine exceptional hardness and chemical resistance with broad spectral transmission, making them ideal for industrial QA/QC, research laboratories and field applications where robustness and reproducibility are paramount.

Cíle a přehled studie / článku

This application note introduces the Agilent diamond ATR accessory designed specifically for the Agilent Cary 630 FTIR spectrometer. The primary objective is to demonstrate how a single-bounce diamond ATR configuration can boost energy throughput by approximately 30% compared to conventional ATR setups, thereby enhancing sensitivity, reducing noise and accelerating data collection.

Použitá metodika a instrumentace

The accessory employs a single-reflection diamond crystal at a nominal 45° incidence angle. Infrared light entering the crystal generates an evanescent wave at the crystal–sample interface, penetrating the sample to a depth of 1–7 µm depending on wavenumber. A slip-clutch pressure clamp ensures consistent contact. Key instrument details include:

• Agilent Cary 630 FTIR spectrometer platform
• Diamond ATR crystal, single bounce, 45° angle
• Effective pathlengths: 1.1 µm @ 4000 cm⁻¹; 2.6 µm @ 1700 cm⁻¹; 7.3 µm @ 600 cm⁻¹
• Optional KBr (6300–350 cm⁻¹) or ZnSe (5100–600 cm⁻¹) window configurations
• Multi-language intuitive software with guided steps and maintenance alerts

Hlavní výsledky a diskuse

Comparative testing showed a ~30% increase in signal throughput versus standard diamond ATR accessories, resulting in lower spectral noise and shorter acquisition times. The integrated pressure clamp delivered reproducible contact pressure across diverse sample types. Rugged design, derived from mobile FTIR platforms, maintained performance in humid and corrosive environments. Users reported clear, high-resolution spectra for polymers, paints, pharmaceuticals and biological gels.

Přínosy a praktické využití metody

The diamond ATR accessory enables:

• Rapid analysis of minute or irregularly shaped solids and powders via high-pressure sample clamp
• Routine liquid and gel measurements without transmission cells
• Field-deployable performance for environmental and process monitoring
• Minimal downtime due to quick accessory swap and self-alert cleaning reminders

Budoucí trendy a možnosti využití

Future developments may include integration with automated sample changers, advanced chemometric workflows and expanded ATR crystal materials to target specialized spectral regions. Coupling with Agilent DialPath and TumblIR accessories will offer dynamic pathlength control for high-concentration liquids. Enhanced portable FTIR systems could leverage diamond ATR for on-site forensic, environmental and industrial monitoring.

Závěr

The Agilent diamond ATR accessory for the Cary 630 FTIR delivers superior energy throughput, robust operation and user-friendly software guidance. Its single-bounce diamond design provides high-quality, reproducible spectra across a wide range of applications, from polymers to pharmaceuticals, making it an indispensable tool for modern infrared analysis.

Reference

• Agilent Technologies Inc. Diamond Attenuated Total Reflectance Accessory for the Agilent Cary 630 FTIR, Application Note 5991-2197EN, April 2013.