Please do not use the spectrometer UNTIL YOUR TA HAS GIVEN AN IN-LAB DEMONSTRATION on the usage of the instrument. The following guide is a primer for you to become familiar with the instrument before you get to your lab section.



1. The Console



You will be working with the top half of the console. Notice the seven (7) blank buttons directly beneath the monitor. Each button corresponds to the box on the screen directly above it.




2. Cell Preparation



The first picture displays all parts of the spectrometer cell. Proceeding clockwise from upper left: cell body with O-ring, cell cap (screw on), silver chloride (AgCl) plate, silver chloride (AgCl) plate.

If your product is an oil, place a *tiny* drop of your sample on one plate. Take the other plate and place it on top of your sample, making a "sandwich." Place the silver chloride plates in the cell body as shown in the second picture. Carefully screw the cap onto the cell body (not too tight!) as in the third picture. If your product is a solid, dissolve a few crystals in some dichloromethane or chloroform (consult your TA) and place the solution on the AgCl plate.



3. Placement of Cell in Spectrometer



Place the cell carefully into the spectrometer as shown in the pictures. Close the door gently.



4. Taking the IR spectrum



Press the SCAN button once. When you do this, the box above the last blank button (the button directly above the SCAN button) will say EXECUTE. Press the button corresponding to EXECUTE.

To plot your spectrum to the laser printer, press PLOT (NOT PRINT!).



5. Analysis of your IR spectrum

If your peaks are too intense, take apart the cell and wipe ONE plate with a kimwipe. Put the cell back together and retake the IR spectrum. This process will effectively reduce the amount of sample on the plates by half.



6. Cleaning Up

Take apart the cell and rinse the silver chloride plates with acetone and wipe them clean with a kimwipe. Place the cell back in the yellow plastic box located near the IR spectrometer.