THE SENSITIVITY AND LIMITATIONS OF CONDENSED PHASE INFRARED-EMISSION SPECTROSCOPY

The basic problems of condensed phase infrared emission spectroscopy are discussed. Conditions which cause instrumental background and the method for background removal are reviewed. The sensitivity of the technique is illustrated with spectra of microgram quantities. Spectra are shown for samples near room temperature (30 degree C) and for a sample below room temperature. The major limitations in infrared emission spectroscopy are reviewed and the problems associated with multiple passing of radiation through the modulator are outlined.