Microplastics FTIR Analysis Laboratories (µ-FTIR)
Fourier transform infrared microscopy identifies a particle by its infrared absorption spectrum, matched against polymer reference libraries, and can map a whole filter to identify many particles in one measurement.
What does it measure?
- Polymer identity per particle, with a library match quality
- Particle size and shape from the same image data
- Filter-level maps giving counts by polymer type
When is it used?
- Identifying particles isolated from water, soil, food or product samples
- Confirming whether a suspected particle is polymeric at all
- Routine identification work where particles are large enough for infrared microscopy
Sample considerations
- Particles must be presented on a suitable filter or window; the laboratory's isolation step normally handles this.
- Very small particles approach the practical limit of infrared microscopy and are often better addressed by Raman.
- Weathered and pigmented particles can give poorer library matches; the report should state match confidence.
Laboratories with relevant capabilities
- Anderson Materials Evaluation (Columbia, MD) — Surface Analysis, Materials Testing, Failure Analysis
- MAEON Laboratories (Chennai, Tamil Nadu) — Rubber Testing, Plastics Testing, Polymer Testing
- Japan Polymer Analytical and Research Laboratory India (Chennai, Tamil Nadu) — Polymer Testing, Rubber Testing, Chemical Analysis
- Kiyo R&D Center and Laboratory (Chennai, Tamil Nadu) — Polymer Testing, Plastics Testing, Thermal Analysis
Frequently asked questions
- FTIR or Raman for my sample?
- FTIR is generally applied to larger particles and is fast over a whole filter; Raman reaches smaller particles but takes longer per particle. Many programmes use FTIR first and Raman for the fine fraction.
Confirm standard edition, jurisdiction and actual laboratory scope. Service references are not partnerships or endorsements.