Drawbacks of the present standards for processing absorption spectra recorded linearly as a function of wavelength

Problems in the processing of spectra recorded linearly as a function of wavelength are discussed. The problems are connected with the resolution of overlapping bands and with the long wavelength attenuation in the instrumentally obtained derivative spectra. An attempt is made to establish standards for processing of wavelength recorded spectra. Two solutions, the application of a modified asymmetric Gaussian band shape for resolution of overlapping bands and a 'step by step filter' method for obtaining derivative spectra without loss of spectral information, are suggested. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.