FTIR Plastic Analysis System

Importance of the Topic

Accurate identification of plastic materials is essential in many sectors including quality control, failure analysis and environmental monitoring. Deterioration caused by heat or UV irradiation alters infrared spectral features and challenges conventional library matching methods.

Objectives and Overview

This report introduces the Plastic Analyzer solution based on Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy combined with specialized deterioration libraries. It demonstrates how the system enables precise identification of both contaminants and aged microplastics by reflecting specific degradation conditions.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The analysis workflow integrates spectral acquisition and matching against custom libraries

• Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer
• Single-reflection ATR attachment
• Plastic Analyzer method package
• UV-damaged plastics library with spectra from accelerated weathering
• Thermal-damaged plastics library with spectra from controlled heating
• Macro program and parameter file for automated IR Pilot operation

Main Results and Discussion

In contaminant analysis of a light brown semi-transparent residue on a plated part the system correctly matched heated polyethylene samples at specific temperatures and durations. In UV exposure tests on polypropylene samples left outdoors, standard libraries suggested unrelated polymers whereas the UV damage library identified polypropylene irradiated for 75 hours as the top match. These case studies confirm that dedicated deterioration libraries improve matching accuracy and support inference of thermal and irradiation histories.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Reliable identification of degraded plastic materials
• Enhanced failure and contamination analysis in industrial settings
• Support for environmental and microplastics research
• Streamlined workflow through automated methods and reports

Used Instrumentation

• IRSpirit Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer
• QATR-S single-reflection ATR accessory
• LabSolutions IR software with IR Pilot program

Future Trends and Opportunities

Further expansion of degradation libraries to cover additional polymer grades and conditions is anticipated. Integration of machine learning for automated spectral interpretation and the development of portable FTIR systems will broaden on site analysis of deteriorated plastics and microplastic contaminants.

Conclusion

The Plastic Analyzer system demonstrates robust performance in identifying both contaminants and aged plastics by leveraging specialized deterioration libraries and streamlined IR software. This approach enhances analytical reliability and offers practical solutions for industrial and environmental applications.

Reference

Shimadzu Corporation Application Note C103-E130B December 2020.