Infrared (IR)

Infrared spectroscopy is applied in the petrochemical industry to determine and quantify the chemical functional groups present in petroleum products. Infrared spectroscopy is sometimes referred to as molecular spectroscopy because it identifies the molecules in a sample as opposed to emission spectroscopy that identifies the elements in a sample. An IR analysis of an oil sample provides a fingerprint based on absorbed frequencies of infrared radiation that are unique to each chemical functional group.

In used oil and hydraulic fluid applications, the Spectro FTIR or the FluidScan can be used to determine lubricant degradation such as oxidation, nitration, sulfation as well as contamination including fuel dilution, water, glycol and soot. Additive depletion for ZDDP antiwear additive can also be monitored.

In biodiesel fuels, the Spectro FTIR or the FluidScan are used to determine the glycerin, water and oxidation concentration and the FAME (biodiesel) content of petroleum diesel/biodiesel fuel blends.

Applicable Spectro Products:

• Fluid Scan, Handheld Lubricant Condition Monitor
• Spectro FTIR, oil Analyzer