Rapid Identification for the Pterocarpus Bracelet by Three-Step Infrared Spectrum Method.

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Forensic Science

Background:

• High-value Pterocarpus collections, particularly those from Pterocarpus santalinus, are susceptible to counterfeiting.
• Accurate and rapid identification methods are essential for verifying the authenticity of these precious materials.
• Traditional identification methods may be time-consuming or lack the required precision.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a rapid, multi-step infrared spectroscopy method for identifying Pterocarpus santalinus.
• To differentiate commercial Pterocarpus bracelets (PB) from genuine P. santalinus.
• To provide an effective anti-counterfeiting strategy for valuable Pterocarpus wood products.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a three-step infrared spectrum analysis: Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), second derivative IR spectra (SDIR), and two-dimensional correlation infrared (2DIR) spectroscopy.
• Compared spectral features of commercial Pterocarpus bracelets with authentic Pterocarpus santalinus samples.
• Employed fluorescence microscopy to corroborate the spectroscopic findings for wood identification.

Main Results:

• FTIR and SDIR analyses revealed distinct peak differences between commercial Pterocarpus bracelets and P. santalinus, particularly at specific wavenumbers.
• 2DIR spectroscopy highlighted differential responses of holocellulose and aromatic functional groups to thermal perturbation, clearly distinguishing the two sample types.
• Fluorescence microscopy confirmed the effectiveness and consistency of the infrared spectroscopic method for wood authentication.

Conclusions:

• The three-step infrared spectrum method offers a rapid, effective, and reliable approach for the anti-counterfeiting of Pterocarpus collections.
• This technique provides a robust tool for verifying the authenticity of commercial Pterocarpus wood products.
• The study successfully demonstrated a practical application of advanced spectroscopic methods in combating the trade of counterfeit high-value natural products.