1) Qualitative Analysis:
Functional Group Identification: Detects groups like hydroxyl (-OH), carbonyl (C=O), and alkene (C=C).
Compound Characterization: Confirms synthesis or isolation using the unique "fingerprint" region.
2) Quantitative Analysis:
Measures species concentration through IR absorption, especially effective with ATR-FTIR techniques.
3) Polymer Analysis:
Determines copolymer compositions, crystallinity, and other polymer characteristics.
4) Study of Hydrogen Bonding:
Investigates hydrogen bond strength and nature in solvents or complex systems.
5) Gas Analysis:
Identifies and quantifies gases for environmental and industrial applications.
6) Pharmaceutical Industry:
Ensures quality control, drug purity, and identifies counterfeit medications.
7) Food and Agriculture:
Detects adulteration, and measures fat, water, and other food components.
8) Forensic Analysis:
Identifies drugs, toxins, or residues in samples; analyzes materials like paint chips and fibers from crime scenes.
9) Petrochemical Industry:
Characterizes hydrocarbons, analyzes mixtures, and studies fuels and lubricants.
10) Catalysis:
Examines surface adsorbed species on catalysts using techniques like DRIFT spectroscopy.
11) Environmental Monitoring:
Detects and quantifies pollutants in air, water, and soil.
12) Biomedical Applications:
Analyzes protein-ligand interactions, protein structures, lipid profiles, and tissue imaging.
13) Cultural Heritage and Art:
Studies materials in artworks, historical artifacts, and archaeological samples.