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Interpretation and Practical Courses

Interpretation Courses

Course Description

This is a classroom course to teach participants how to approach infrared and Raman spectra to determine sample structure.  The course uses a functional groups approach, and it is explained how to recognize bands that are associated with functional groups, and how to ignore bands that are not useful.  Redundant information in the spectra is used to verify the identity of the functional groups.  Once the functional groups are identified, participants are instructed how to arrive at a sample structure.

Course Topics

The course starts with a brief introduction to the theory of vibrational spectroscopy and discussion of functional groups.  Detailed discussions of the Carbon-hydrogen functional groups follow, that is the alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, and aromatics.  Other functional groups follow, such as carbonyls, amides, and groups with other elements.  Polymer lectures are coordinated with the various functional groups.  Three workshop sessions are held during the course to determine chemical structure from infrared and Raman spectra.  The staff is present during the workshop sessions to assist with the exercises.  There are lectures on search systems and sampling techniques, but there are no spectrometers or accessories available during the course.

Detailed Course Schedule

Practical Courses

Course Description

Scientists who use instrumentation, particularly spectroscopic instrumentation, may have received little or no formal training in spectroscopy. This lack of training leads to a number of problems that include understanding sampling and the impact of various configurations and accessories as well as the ability to distinguish “good” from “bad” spectra. This hands-on course will show applications of accessories and sampling configurations, common problems associated with sampling, and the results of improper data handling. We will demonstrate proper use of instrumentation and provide students with the opportunity to use instrumentation under the guidance of the course instructors.