Interpretation Courses

Skills That Set Analysts Apart

Running an instrument is only part of the job. Analysts who read the resulting data critically and accurately become the people their employers rely on. Participants leave able to validate data from outside sources and draw dependable conclusions across the spectrum. 

Foundations in Infrared Analysis

This infrared spectra interpretation course builds a firm base in FT-IR fundamentals, so participants can read infrared data with confidence. Characteristic band positions and shapes point directly to key structural features, and that skill drives accurate functional group analysis. 

Raman Polarization & Molecular Symmetry

The Raman spectra interpretation course segment covers polarization effects and the clues they give about molecular orientation and symmetry. Participants also learn when each technique is strongest on its own and how to pair the two for complete structure elucidation. These insights complement infrared results and fill gaps that a single method leaves open. 

Practical Value on the Job

Training centers on unknown spectra rather than textbook examples, which sharpens real-world problem-solving ability. Participants also learn to closely examine library search results, catch mismatches, and prevent costly errors. Stronger interpretation skills also improve preliminary search findings and reduce expenses and legal exposure. 

Value Employers Recognize

Interpretation expertise converts raw data into sound judgments. Analysts who extract meaningful information from spectra gain credibility with colleagues and clients, and employers recognize that worth. The training pays off in sounder decisions at every stage of analysis. 

Course Description

  • We teach participants in a classroom setting how to approach infrared and Raman spectra to determine sample structure.
  • We use a functional groups approach and explain 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. 
  • We instruct participants how to arrive at a sample structure once the functional groups are identified.
  • The course is taught in a classroom as opposed to online, as we firmly believe participants master the material better in an immersive environment.
  • We are available during the entire week to answer questions about the course material, or about problems you have with samples or spectra as part of your employment. 

Course Topics

  1. We start the course with a brief introduction to the theory of vibrational spectroscopy and a discussion of functional groups.
  2. Next, we present detailed discussions of the carbon-hydrogen functional groups, that is, the alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, and aromatics.
  3. Other functional group discussions follow, such as carbonyls, amides, and groups with other elements.
  4. We coordinate the polymer spectra lectures with the various functional groups.
  5. Three workshop sessions are held during the course to determine chemical structure from infrared and Raman spectra.
  6. All the instructors are present during the workshop sessions to assist with the exercises.
  7. We also present lectures on search systems and sampling techniques, but there are no spectrometers or accessories available during the course.

 A Detailed Course Schedule is available.