Optimal Spectral Resolution for Infrared Studies of Solids and Liquids.

Due to a legacy originating in the limited capability of early computers, the spectroscopic resolution used in Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and other systems has largely been implemented using only powers of two for more than 50 years. In this study, we investigate debunking the spectroscopic lore of, e.g.

Confirmation of PNNL Quantitative Infrared Cross-Sections for Isobutane.

The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) gas-phase database is a compilation of quantitative experimental (5, 25, and 50 °C) infrared spectra of 500 molecules, designed for , standoff or remote sensing of gases and vapors at or near atmospheric pressure. The data are characterized by calibration on both the wavenumber and intensity axes. Recent papers have called into question the PNNL intensity values for isobutane, [2-methylpropane, HC(CH)], suggesting discrepancies of 30-40%.

Accurate Measurement of the Optical Constants n and k for a Series of 57 Inorganic and Organic Liquids for Optical Modeling and Detection.

For optical modeling and other purposes, we have created a library of 57 liquids for which we have measured the complex optical constants n and k. These liquids vary in their nature, ranging in properties that include chemical structure, optical band strength, volatility, and viscosity. By obtaining the optical constants, one can model most optical phenomena in media and at interfaces including reflection, refraction, and dispersion.

High-resolution infrared spectroscopy in the 1,200-1,300 cm(-1) region and accurate theoretical estimates for the structure and ring-puckering barrier of perfluorocyclobutane.

We present experimental infrared spectra and theoretical electronic structure results for the geometry, anharmonic vibrational frequencies, and accurate estimates of the magnitude and the origin of the ring-puckering barrier in C4F8. High-resolution (0.0015 cm-1) spectra of the nu12 and nu13 parallel bands of perfluorocyclobutane (c-C4F8) were recorded for the first time by expanding a 10% c-C4F8 in helium mixture in a supersonic jet.

Gas-phase databases for quantitative infrared spectroscopy.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) are each creating quantitative databases containing the vapor-phase infrared spectra of pure chemicals. The digital databases have been created with both laboratory and remote-sensing applications in mind. A spectral resolution of approximate, equals 0.

Removing aperture-induced artifacts from Fourier transform infrared intensity values.

Two Fourier transform infrared intensity artifacts have been observed at moderately high (0.1 cm(-1)) spectral resolution: Light reflected off the aperture was double modulated by the interferometer, producing a 2f alias, and the warm (approximately 310 K) annulus of the aperture seen by a cooled detector resulted in distorted line shapes and anomalous intensities in the fingerprint region. Although the second artifact has been alluded to previously, we report corrections to remove both of these anomalies and to demonstrate the efficacy of these corrections.