Infrared Spectroscopy for Real-Time Measurement

Hamamatsu Photonics presents its new FTIR engine, the C15511-01, a very compact device that has been developed to real-time measurement performed on site. It can be used in many fields, from the discrimination of materials to agricultural sector

by Massimo Brozan

A Japanese company specialized in optoelectronics for more than 60 years, Hamamatsu Photonics has recently launched the release of the new FTIR engine (Furier Transform Infrared spectroscopy), the C15511-01. Among the main technical features, this device has high sensitivity to near-infrared light at wavelengths from 1.1 to 2.5 μm and a typical spectral resolution of 5,7 nm. The C15511-011 has also a high signal to noise ratio (SNR).

How does the Furier Transform Infrared spectroscopy work?

The FTIR uses a Michelson Optical Interferometer which allows the scanning of the involved frequencies. Indeed, the FTIR engine’s optical interferometer has a movable mirror that uses Micro Electro Mechanical System (MEMS) technology and fixed mirror. As showed in the picture, the incident light is split into two light beams by a beam splitter. The two light beams are reflected by a fixed mirror and movable mirror and return to the beam splitter, where they are recombined, causing optical interference. The photodetector acquires light intensity signals that varies depending on the movable mirror position. The optical spectrum is obtained by taking the Fourier Transform of this light intensity signal. Light from the measurement sample can be input to C15511-10 through an optical fiber, which provides a highly flexible measurement system.

A software with function for setting measurement condition

Spectrum and absorbance can be measure by connecting a PC via USB (USB 2.0) connection. The product includes evaluation software with function
for setting measurement condition (Gain, integration count and so on), acquiring and saving data. Furthermore, the DLL (Dynamic Link Library) function specifications are disclosed, so users can create their original software.

It’s ideal for process analysis and material inspection

The device is very compact, it can be applied to real-time measurement performed on site. FTIR engine from Hamamatsu Photonics can be used in the field of materials characterization through Infra-Red absorption: for example the discrimination of materials (especially identification of plastic), or discrimination of samples of the same material but with different thickness. Other application may include inspection and sorting of agricultural products in the field by analyzing their ingredients. In general, it can be used in different industrial filed for process analysis and material inspection.