High-throughput studies with ATR

The rate of disappearance of the monomer double bonds was monitored with ATR-ETIR, enabling the reaction kinetics to be studied by the high-throughput variation of individual reagent concentrations and by changing the pH of the reaction system. 

Experimentally, certain precautions are needed to produce good quality ATP. spectra. The surfaces of the ATR prism should be clean and highly polished dul1 surfaces will result in loss of optical throughput. The sample under study should make intimate and uniform contact with the crystal, since the depth of penetration depends on these factors as well. It is particularly important to maintain the uniformity of contact if further data processing, such as absorbance subtraction, and quantitative measurements are to be made from the ATR spectra. Reproducible contact between the crystal and the sample can be ensured by employing a torque wrench set at a constant value to press the sample against the crystal. From the above discussion, it is also obvious that the sample should be pliable, and have a smooth surface. 

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