Detection of Free Radical Absorption Spectra by Chemical Modulation

Abstract

A method is described for studying free radicals by absorption spectroscopy. The principal feature is the maintenance of an oscillating free radical concentration, which takes advantage of the high momentary concentrations that follow pulses of energy, and yet may be integrated to provide a continuous free radical absorption signal. The problems of detecting absorption in these transient systems are discussed using NH₂ generated by an electrical discharge through ammonia as an example.