Reflection spectrum Surfactant

Infrared (IR) spectroscopy is most often used for qualitative identification of chemical compounds. Comprehensive works on the application of IR spectroscopy to identification of surfactants are available elsewhere. The volume of Hummel is an essential reference for experts as well as a teaching aid for novices (1). The Sadtler database is invaluable (2). A number of shorter works provide an introduction to surfactants for the beginner (3-6). With experience, the spectroscopist will find it possible to identify not only pure compounds, but also mixtures of surfactants. Modem computerized instraments aid by permitting subtraction of spectra of known compounds from the spectrum of the mixture. IR spectroscopy is widely used for detailed examination of purified fractions prepared by extraction or ion exchange chromatography. The small sample size requirement makes it possible to identify compounds collected from the eluent of a liquid chromatograph, especially if techniques like diffuse reflectance Fourier transform IR are used. 

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