Rapid computer-assisted infrared analysis of urinary calculi using photoacoustic detection

The application of commercial spectrum-analysing software to quantitative analysis of urinary stones by Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry is described. The infrared technique is straightforward in comparison with other stone analysis procedures of similar scope and affords significant time savings. The use of partial least squares regression in the analysis program enables better quantitation of stone components than has been hitherto possible using infrared methods. All the principal and many less common stone constituents can be detected and measured. Photoacoustic detection was employed, thus enabling non-destructive analysis with minimal sample preparation. A comparison is made between the infrared procedure and the hybrid thermogravimetric plus "wet" chemistry technique, which it has superseded for routine urinary stone analysis in the author's department.