Novel attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared microscopy using a gem quality diamond as an internal...

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Spectroscopy
• Materials Science

Background:

• Attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR FT-IR) is a common technique for analyzing materials.
• Conventional internal reflection elements (IREs) often use flat surfaces, limiting their application.
• Developing novel IREs can enhance spectral acquisition and material analysis capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel technique for ATR FT-IR spectral acquisition using a unique diamond IRE.
• To investigate the performance of a sharp-tipped faceted diamond IRE compared to traditional IREs.
• To explore the application of evanescent fields generated by the diamond IRE for material analysis.

Main Methods:

• A gem-quality faceted diamond with a sharp tip was employed as the novel IRE.
• Light was coupled at normal incidence into the diamond IRE.
• Transflected radiation was collected via a 15x Cassegrainian objective.
• The evanescent field at the pavilion facet was utilized for ATR spectral acquisition.
• Spectra were compared with those obtained using a traditional zinc selenide IRE.

Main Results:

• The novel diamond IRE successfully acquired ATR FT-IR spectra.
• The technique utilizes two reflections within the diamond IRE.
• The performance of the diamond IRE was comparable to traditional zinc selenide IREs.
• The sharp tip configuration facilitated ATR spectral acquisition.

Conclusions:

• A novel sharp-tipped faceted diamond IRE provides an effective method for ATR FT-IR spectral acquisition.
• This technique offers a viable alternative to conventional IREs for infrared microscopy.
• The developed method demonstrates potential for advanced material characterization.