Spectroscopy

Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a powerful analytical technique used to obtain an infrared spectrum of absorption or emission of a solid, liquid, or gas. It is based on the principle that molecules absorb specific frequencies that are characteristic of their structure, allowing for the identification of chemical compounds and functional groups. We have access to a number of supplemental accessories such as attenuated total reflectance (ATR) for solids and liquids and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) for powders.

Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy is an analytical technique that measures the absorption of light by a sample in the ultraviolet and visible regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. The absorption of light at specific wavelengths provides information about the electronic structure of molecules, allowing for the identification and quantification of various compounds, including organic molecules, inorganic complexes, and biological macromolecules. We have access to a number of accessories such as Specular Reflectance, an integrating Sphere, and temperature control.

Fluorescence spectroscopy is a sensitive analytical technique that measures the emission of light by a sample after it has absorbed light of a specific wavelength. The emitted light, known as fluorescence, occurs at a longer wavelength than the absorbed light and provides information about the electronic structure and environment of the fluorescing molecules, making it useful for studying various substances, including organic compounds, proteins, and nanomaterials. Our instrument has access to an autosampler and temperature control accessories.

Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy is an analytical technique used to study the chiral properties of molecules by measuring their differential absorption of left- and right-circularly polarized light. It is especially valuable for characterizing the secondary structure of proteins and other biomolecules in solution. CD provides rapid, sensitive insight into conformational changes, folding, and stability under varying conditions. Because measurements can be performed with minimal sample preparation, it is well suited for routine and comparative studies. We have a temperature controlled multi sample cell holder along with a titration accessory and the ability to extend the wavelengths into the near IR.

A Raman microscope is an analytical instrument that combines Raman spectroscopy with microscopy to provide detailed chemical and structural information about a sample at the microscopic level. It utilizes a focused laser beam to excite the sample, causing inelastic scattering of light (Raman scattering), which is then collected and analyzed to generate a Raman spectrum that provides a unique chemical fingerprint of the sample, allowing for the identification and characterization of various materials, including polymers, pharmaceuticals, and biological samples, with high spatial resolution. Our system has access to a 532 nm point laser and a 785 nm line laser. We have 5x, 20x and 50x focal objectives.

X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), also known as Electron Spectroscopy for Chemical Analysis (ESCA), is a surface-sensitive analytical technique used to determine the elemental composition, chemical state, and electronic structure of a material's surface. It involves irradiating a sample with a beam of X-rays and measuring the kinetic energy and number of electrons that escape from the top 1 to 10 nm of the material, providing quantitative information about the surface chemistry and allowing for the identification of chemical bonding states and oxidation states of elements present on the sample surface.

The cost of using this instrument is $30/hour for internal BYU users, $90/hour for external users.