Analytical applications of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy

Matrix isolated Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was shown to be a suitable technique for the analysis of three classes of nitrogen containing aromatic compounds: the neutral aza-arenes with a pyrrole type nitrogen, the basic aza-arenes with a pyridine type nitrogen, and the basic aromatic amines with an aniline type nitrogen. The use of this sampling technique in the analysis of hydroxylated aromatic compounds was also demonstrated.

A gas chromatographic interface was used in the analysis of nitrogen and oxygen-containing constituents in a standard shale oil. Results are generally within 10% of the previously established values and indicate the ability to quantitatively analyze an environmental sample at the 300ng level.

Attempts to study the infrared spectra of transient species produced by ultraviolet photolysis of acetaldehyde, acetone, and other chemicals were not successful. Spectral artifacts generated in these attempts are discussed. Earlier reports in the chemical literature are critically reevaluated.

Future possibilities in the areas of matrix isolation spectros copy and time resolved infrared spectroscopy using a commercially available Fourier transform spectrometer are discussed.