Fourier Transform Infrared Studies of Polymeric Materials

Abstract

The recent introduction of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrometers that are operable over the entire IR frequency range has revitalized the field of IR spectroscopy. IR studies of complex polymeric materials that were impossible, or at least extremely difficult using conventional dispersive spectrometers, are now readily accomplished. In this review of the application of FTIR to the study of polymeric materials, we initially present a brief critical comparison of the FTIR and dispersive spectrometers followed by a discussion of the results that have been published to date.