The core application of the infrared tablet press (compatible with FTIR mid-infrared detection)

The infrared tablet press is a key device for solid sample preparation in Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Designed for the KBr pellet method, it enables high-precision mid-infrared spectroscopy detection by compressing mixtures of solid samples and potassium bromide (KBr) into uniform, transparent, and crack-free thin discs. This process eliminates light scattering from powder samples and ensures efficient transmission of mid-infrared light, ultimately producing infrared spectra with stable baselines and clear peak shapes.

Core Value of the IR Tablet Press

The IR tablet press addresses several challenges in solid sample preparation for FTIR:

• Efficiently handles powders, crystalline particles, and fine-grained solids.
• Provides a standardized laboratory method for qualitative identification, structural characterization, and purity testing of solids, including organic, inorganic, and polymer samples.
• Widely applied across industries reliant on mid-infrared detection: chemical engineering, pharmaceuticals, materials science, textiles, food, environmental monitoring, and metallurgy.
• Complements ATR accessories by combining laboratory-precise sample preparation with on-site rapid detection.
• Ensures accurate infrared spectra for both qualitative and quantitative analysis.

Core Application Principle

Not all solid samples require an IR tablet press. Proper use depends on sample compatibility and analysis requirements. The equipment is most effective under the following scenarios:

Applicable Scenarios

1. Pure Solid Powders
   • Chemical raw materials, crystalline pharmaceutical powders, inorganic salts, polymer resin powders, ground fibers, and plastic particles.
2. Trace Solid Samples (Trace Pressing Molds)
   • Impurity powders, trace products, and solid fractions from chromatographic separation, typically <1 mg sample weight.
3. Samples Requiring Precise Structural Characterization
   • Crystal form analysis, molecular bonding state detection, and qualitative determination of trace impurities.
   • Requires baseline-stable spectra without interference peaks.
4. Inorganic Solid Samples
   • Oxides, carbonates, silicates, and mineral powders that cannot be efficiently analyzed using ATR accessories.
5. Solid Standard Samples for Quantitative Analysis
   • KBr pellet method ensures uniform dispersion, making it ideal for solid quantitative analysis and calibration curve establishment.

Non-Applicable / Alternative Scenarios

Certain samples are not suitable for standard IR tablet pressing and require alternative methods:

• On-site rapid detection and non-destructive testing: Prefer ATR accessory for direct measurement.
• Thick liquids and pastes: Use liquid film method or ATR accessory.
• Insoluble solid blocks: ATR accessory is preferred if grinding and KBr mixing are impossible.
• Hygroscopic, oxidizable, or corrosive solids: KBr pressing may contaminate samples or molds; use ATR or vacuum pressing machines instead.

Operational Guidelines for IR Tablet Pressing

• Pressure Control: Typical pressures range from 10–20 MPa, up to 30 MPa for specialized models.
• Sample-KBr Mixing: Ensure homogeneous dispersion to prevent light scattering and guarantee accurate infrared transmission.
• Disc Quality: Aim for transparent, crack-free, and uniform thickness to achieve reproducible spectra.
• Safety & Cleanliness: Maintain clean pressing molds and avoid contamination, particularly for sensitive or trace samples.

Industry Implementation Scenarios

Industry	Application	Benefit
Chemical Engineering	Organic/inorganic powder analysis	Accurate molecular characterization
Pharmaceuticals	Drug crystal form verification	Ensures drug purity and compliance
Materials Science	Polymer resin structure studies	Clear spectra for research and quality control
Food Industry	Additives and contamination detection	Fast, reproducible results
Environmental Testing	Mineral and soil powder analysis	Reliable quantitative and qualitative data

Summary

The IR tablet press is a critical tool for FTIR mid-infrared detection, providing:

• Precision in sample preparation for powders, crystals, and trace solids.
• Reliable spectra for qualitative and quantitative analysis.
• Complementary role with ATR accessories for lab and field applications.

By adhering to core application principles, laboratories can optimize sample preparation efficiency, improve spectral quality, and ensure accurate material analysis across industries.