More applications of infrared spectroscopy & imaging methods
Mid- and Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (MIR and NIR) are among the most versatile and powerful analytical techniques, widely used across numerous industries. The two methods primarily differ in the wavelength ranges of electromagnetic radiation they utilize: MIR operates within 2.5 to 25 µm, while NIR covers 780 to 2500 nm. Both techniques excite molecules to characteristic vibrations, enabling detailed chemical analyses.
The choice between MIR and NIR depends on the specific application, the materials to be analyzed, and the required level of detail in the chemical analysis. Each method offers distinct advantages, including high precision and flexibility in chemical characterization. Thanks to technological advancements, even portable devices in pocket-size formats are now available, opening up new possibilities for the application of these technologies.
At the Institute of Analytical Chemistry and Radiochemistry at the University of Innsbruck, under the leadership of Univ.-Prof. Dr. Mag. Christian W. Huck, diverse applications and developments in infrared spectroscopy are being explored through ongoing research. These studies demonstrate the broad potential of this technique in analytical chemistry and its contribution to innovative solutions in science and industry.
In addition, we offer an extended range of specialized analyses in collaboration with our partner laboratory, Labor für Innovative Analytik OG (LIA), providing comprehensive solutions for your scientific and industrial inquiries.
Successfull Applications
Examples and publications
Quality of (luxury) food products
Near-infrared (NIR) has proven to be a valuable tool in the quality control of truffles, especially in detecting adulteration. When expensive Périgord truffles are mixed with cheaper Asian truffles, the use of miniaturized devices enables clear differentiation between multiple varieties. Authentication of the variety can be achieved within seconds, and additional characteristics, such as the approximate harvest time, can also be estimated in the same measurement.
Raw material control
Raw material control using infrared spectroscopy is an effective method for identifying and characterizing materials. It is used to verify the quality of raw materials, detect impurities, and ensure that the products meet the required standards.
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Content determination of plant extracts
The content determination of plant extracts using near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is a common and efficient method for quantitatively measuring specific components. This includes polyphenols, essential oils, and other quality-defining substances. By calibration and comparison with reference values, concentrations can be determined accurately. This non-invasive method is extremely useful in the quality assurance and production monitoring of plant extracts, as it allows for precise analyses in a short amount of time.
Harvest time determination
The ability of near-infrared spectroscopy to non-invasively analyze the chemical composition of plants allows for real-time assessment of ripeness and quality. This enables the achievement of optimal quality and yields.
Why Infrarot-Analysis?
Advantages in application
Infrared spectroscopy offers several key advantages over conventional (wet chemical) methods. It allows for the simultaneous and rapid determination of multiple parameters (both qualitatively and quantitatively) within a single measurement. Unlike wet chemical methods, it does not require extensive preparation, the use of chemicals, or complex sample preparation processes. Furthermore, it is more environmentally friendly and enables non-destructive analysis, allowing the sample to remain intact after the measurement. This technique revolutionizes quality control through its efficiency, accuracy, and versatility, both for laboratory testing and online process monitoring, paving the way for faster, more comprehensive, and environmentally friendly characterization of materials, substances, and products.
LIA - Innovative Analytik OG
The development and establishment of the analytical methods are carried out in collaboration with our partner laboratory, LIA - Innovative Analytik OG. Their expertise and technical competence enable precise and reliable analyses, as well as integration into quality assurance. This partnership ensures that our clients benefit from comprehensive expertise in analytics and spectroscopy.
Spektrometers and sample types
Our diverse selection of devices is based on different techniques such as mid-infrared, near-infrared, and Raman spectroscopy. We also offer miniaturized devices, compact in size and Bluetooth-controlled, as well as imaging devices with additional spatial resolution. These allow for non-destructive analysis of a wide range of samples, whether liquid, powder, or intact. In just a few seconds, these devices provide precise results, enabling us to quickly and reliably determine the composition and characteristics of samples at the molecular level. This allows us to meet the needs of our clients across various applications and industries, providing high-quality analyses.
Multivariate analysis and calibration
Multivariate data analysis plays a crucial role in the creation of calibration models and thus also in the precision of the results. This enables the analysis and evaluation of large amounts of data and also generates valuable insights into the product. By applying statistical and mathematical methods, patterns, trends and correlations within the data are identified. The findings can then be used to optimize processes, improve quality standards and identify possible deviations. The implementation of spectroscopy with appropriate data analysis thus enables effective monitoring of production processes, better decision-making and ultimately the guarantee of high product quality.