Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy for coating characterization and failure analysis

FTIR is a powerful analytical technique that can readily be applied to the analysis of coating systems. An FTIR spectrum contains a wealth of information about the basic functional chemical groups in a sample that can be used for identification and for evaluation of chemical changes that occur as a result of environmental exposure or other phenomena. Although other techniques such as energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) or X-ray diffraction (XRD) may be necessary to confirm the identity of mineral pigments—and more detailed structural information can be obtained using techniques such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)—FTIR should be the technique of choice for the initial identification of resins and other organic additives in paint systems.