Hands-on FTIR
- Duration: 2 days for live courses
- Experience level: Intermediate
- Delivery methods: Face-to-face | Offsite training & consultancy | Onsite training & consultancy | Tailored training |
- Type of course: Universal
- Applicable to manufacturer(s): JASCO | Thermo |
- CPD Approved: Not yet approved
- Scheduled course price: £1,250.00 + TAX per delegate
- Course discounts: RSC CAMS HEaTED Cambridge Network members receive a discount on this course
Your hands-on approach to learning Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)
Combine both the practical theory of Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) with hands-on laboratory exercises during this comprehensive 2-day training course. Apply the knowledge learnt in each module through practical exercises involving FTIR instrumentation, sampling accessories, spectral interpretation and data processing. You will gain experience using modern FTIR instrumentation and a variety of sampling techniques including attenuated total reflectance (ATR), transmission, diffuse reflectance and trans-reflection analysis.
This Hands-on FTIR course is ideal for analysts, students and professionals who already have a basic understanding of FTIR but would like to gain more in-depth knowledge and practical experience. The course covers FTIR theory, instrument operation, spectral acquisition, sample preparation, spectral interpretation, data processing, quantitative analysis, troubleshooting and advanced applications, all reinforced through practical laboratory exercises.
Why should I join?
On completion, you will have in-depth theoretical and practical knowledge of using FTIR instrumentation with the confidence to apply these skills as soon as you return to your laboratory.
This Hands-on FTIR course gives you:
- Strong theoretical and practical skills for using FTIR spectroscopy
- Clear explanations and examples of FTIR instrumentation and components
- A guide to FTIR sampling techniques and sample preparation methods
- Hands-on experience with ATR, transmission, diffuse reflectance and trans-reflection techniques
- Practical experience processing and manipulating infrared spectra
- An introduction to FTIR quantitative analysis and calibration development
- Guidance on common maintenance considerations and troubleshooting approaches
- A great refresher for FTIR users who have not used the technique for some time
What would I learn?
A user-friendly FTIR course that covers in-depth aspects of FTIR spectroscopy, with matching practical exercises to put the knowledge learnt into practice. You will learn:
- The principles behind infrared spectroscopy and how molecular vibrations generate infrared spectra
- The function and operation of key FTIR instrument components from source to detector
- How acquisition parameters such as resolution, scan number and gain affect analytical performance
- Reasons for using different FTIR sampling techniques and how to select the most appropriate method
- The advantages and limitations of ATR, transmission, diffuse reflectance and trans-reflection analysis
- How to collect high-quality FTIR data and perform background subtraction and baseline correction
- Spectral processing techniques including normalisation, derivative analysis, smoothing and ATR correction
- The fundamentals of quantitative FTIR and calibration development
- How to troubleshoot common FTIR problems and poor-quality spectra
What knowledge will I gain?
- Be familiar with common FTIR sampling techniques for solids, powders, liquids, gels, pastes and gases
- Understand the principles and practical use of ATR, transmission, diffuse reflectance and trans-reflection measurements
- Be confident discussing key sections of FTIR instrumentation from source and interferometer through to detector and software processing
- Understand how acquisition parameters influence spectral quality, sensitivity and resolution
- Interpret common functional groups and key structural information from FTIR spectra
- Perform spectral processing including baseline corrections, normalisation and derivative analysis
- Gain an insight into advanced FTIR applications including FTIR microscopy, chemical imaging, gas analysis and hyphenated GC-FTIR techniques
- Troubleshoot common FTIR problems including poor sensitivity, baseline drift, distorted peak shapes and sampling issues
- Comprehend the principles behind data generation, interpretation, processing and quantitative analysis using FTIR spectroscopy
Is this course for me?
This training is designed for anyone who needs a solid understanding of FTIR spectroscopy, including:
- Analysts & technicians requiring training or a clear structured refresher of FTIR
- Laboratory or line managers overseeing FTIR instruments
- Data analysts and report writers who interpret results but don’t use the instruments
- Service and consultant engineers who need both a theoretical and a hands-on reminder
- Sales, marketing or commercial teams working with FTIR systems, consumables, data or laboratory services
If FTIR touches your work in any way, this well-planned course delivered by experts in the field equips you to understand the science behind these techniques.
Feedback from previous attendees
“I enjoyed the time spent on instrument and spectral interpretation. It was more complete than other courses due to the opportunity to practice.” Senior Technician, 2025
“I liked the lab exercise most but most useful was knowledge about different parameters the FTIR machine has. It was very good and interactive; I didn’t get bored.” Development Chemist, 2025
“I enjoyed the hands-on approach with the spectral interpretation.” Senior Chemist, 2025
