FTIR single polymer fibers

The sensitivity of FTIR spectroscopy to microscopic defects is greatly increased compared to a macroscopic measurement - if the defective area is examined. As opposed to single element, wide beam spectroscopy where the spectrum from the entire sample is obtained, the polymer does not overshadow the contaminant if a spectrum from a microscopic area of the sample is obtained. The contaminant can be later identified from a library of known compounds, providing clues to process control and helping to maintain quality control. This approach has been used to identify gel inclusions in poly(ethylene) [28, 29], contaminant on the surface of a semi-conductor device [30], acrylic fiber on a microcircuit die (Fig. 4) [31], contaminants in poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) [32] and a mold release agent on the surface of a polyurethane [ 33 ]. An additive (erucamide) in linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) that was found to migrate to the surface [34] thereby changing the surface properties could be readily identified. Various contaminants, whether in a... 

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