Summary:

Introduction: we start with Spectroscopy to Fourier Transform Infrared

 Definition of Fourier Transform Infrared
I. Principe of the technique
II. Instruments (the different components and their functioning)
III. Application of the technique in the field of biological analysis
Conclusion
  Introduction
Spectroscopy is a key analytical method exploring the interaction between matter and
light, revealing details about molecular structures. Our focus today is on Fourier Transform
Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, a technique that uses infrared light to provide insights into the
composition and properties of diverse materials. Let's explore the fundamentals and
applications of FTIR in this presentation.
 Definition :
Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a technique that analyzes the interaction
between infrared radiation and a sample to provide qualitative and quantitative information about
its molecular composition. It measures the absorption, emission, or reflection of infrared light,
producing a spectrum that reveals the unique vibrational and rotational modes of the sample's
chemical bonds. FTIR is widely used in chemistry, biology, and materials science for structural
analysis, identification of functional groups, and concentration determination of substances in a
sample.

I. Principe of the technique

FTIR works by shining infrared light through a sample, recording how much light is absorbed
at different frequencies. A clever math process called Fourier transform turns this data into a
spectrum, revealing a unique fingerprint of the sample's molecular composition.

II. Instruments (the different components and their functioning)

Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a powerful analytical technique used for
identifying and characterizing chemical compounds based on their absorption of infrared light.
The instrument itself consists of several key components, each playing a crucial role in the
process. Here's an overview of the main components and their functioning in FTIR spectroscopy:
1. Source of Infrared Radiation:
 Function: Provides a source of infrared radiation, typically in the form of a broad-spectrum
light.
 Type: Common sources include globar, Nernst glower, or a quantum cascade laser.
2. Beam Splitter:
 Function: Divides the infrared beam into two paths, the sample beam, and the reference
beam.
 Type: Most common are cube corner or Michelson interferometer beam splitters.
3. Interferometer:
 Function: Modifies the path length of one of the beams, creating an interference pattern that
contains information about the sample's absorption.
 Types:
 Michelson Interferometer: Uses mirrors to create an interference pattern.
FT-IR Spectrometer: Uses a moving mirror to vary the path length.
4. Sample Compartment:
 Function: Holds the sample being analyzed.
 Features: Usually, a sample compartment includes a sample holder or cell, which can be a
liquid, solid, or gas cell depending on the sample type.
5. Detector:
 Function: Measures the intensity of the infrared light after it has interacted with the sample.
 Type: Common detectors include mercury cadmium telluride (MCT), deuterated triglycine
sulfate (DTGS), or indium antimonide (InSb).
6. Data Acquisition System:
 Function: Converts the analog signal from the detector into a digital signal for processing.
 Components: Analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and a computer for data storage and
analysis.
7. Computer and Software:
 Function: Controls the instrument, acquires and processes the data, and presents the final
spectrum.
 Software: Fourier transform algorithms, spectral analysis tools, and libraries for database
matching.
8. Reference Material:
 Function: A material with known infrared absorption characteristics used for calibration and
reference.
 Type: Typically, materials like polyethylene or polystyrene are used as reference materials.

III. Application of the technique in the field of biological analysis

Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a versatile analytical technique extensively
utilized in biological analysis. Its applications span various aspects of molecular and structural
characterization in the field of biology
1. Protein Structure and Conformation:
 Enables the study of protein secondary structures, including alpha-helices and
beta-sheets, providing insights into conformational changes under different
conditions.
2. Nucleic Acid Analysis:
 Facilitates the investigation of DNA and RNA structures, allowing the
examination of base pairing, hydration, and conformational changes.
3. Cellular and Tissue Analysis:
  Characterizes cellular components and tissues by identifying biomolecules,
offering a label-free approach for studying cell physiology.
4. Metabolomics and Metabolic Profiling:
 Identifies and quantifies metabolites in biological samples, aiding in
metabolomics studies and providing information on cellular metabolism.
5. Disease Diagnosis:
 Applied in disease diagnosis, such as cancer, by identifying spectral markers
associated with specific pathological conditions.
6. Drug Interaction Studies:
 Investigates drug interactions with biological molecules, crucial for understanding
drug mechanisms and optimizing formulations.
7. Quality Control in Biopharmaceuticals:
 Ensures the consistency and integrity of biopharmaceuticals by monitoring
structural changes and verifying desired biomolecular structures.
8. Microbial Identification:
 Rapidly identifies and classifies microorganisms based on unique spectral
fingerprints, aiding in microbial strain differentiation.
9. Environmental Monitoring:
 Analyzes biomolecules in environmental samples, contributing to the assessment
of the impact of pollutants on living organisms and ecosystems.
10. Food Analysis:
 Used for the analysis of food components, assessing quality, authenticity, and
detecting adulteration in various food products.
In summary, FTIR spectroscopy serves as a fundamental tool in advancing our understanding of
biological systems, offering diverse applications in research, diagnostics, and quality assurance
across various biological disciplines.
Conclusion
Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a transformative tool that unveils the
molecular fingerprints of diverse materials. From its foundational principles to applications in
biological analysis, environmental monitoring, and quality control, FTIR plays a pivotal role in
advancing scientific understanding. Its unique ability to dissect the molecular composition of
substances underscores its significance across various disciplines, making it an indispensable
asset in research, diagnostics, and quality assurance.
 FTIR stands for Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. It is a widely used analytical
technique in chemistry and other scientific disciplines for identifying and characterizing
organic and inorganic compounds based on their absorption of infrared radiation. Infrared
spectroscopy involves the interaction of infrared radiation with matter, causing vibrations in
the molecular bonds of the sample.

 FTIR differs from traditional infrared spectroscopy in the method of data collection. Instead
of scanning through a range of wavelengths sequentially, FTIR simultaneously collects data
over a broad range of wavelengths using interferometry. This results in improved speed and
sensitivity compared to older techniques.

 In FTIR, a sample is exposed to infrared radiation, and the absorption of specific

wavelengths is measured. The resulting spectrum provides information about the functional
groups present in the sample, helping researchers identify and analyze its composition. FTIR
is widely used in various fields, including chemistry, biochemistry, pharmaceuticals,
environmental science, and material science.