Table 6 FTIR measurement advice for three-dimensional polymeric objects

To make good contact with the ATR crystal^a, ensure flat or convex surface selected

Use a card barrier to project object surface from being marked by the clamp

To make good contact with the ATR crystal^a, ensure:

– Consistent pressure applied to object (standing upright over FTIR may assist)

– Sample does not shift (may be useful for another person to operate the computer)

If unable to apply consistent pressure, select lower number of co-added scans

Select appropriate aperture size:

– Small for irregular or curved surfaces (present convex surface)

– Medium or large if surface is flat

Support the object with blocks

Use the camera to ensure object is in focus

Do not shift or bump during measurement

If required, increase co-added scans to improve spectral quality