Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy is a qualitative elemental analysis of organic products such as inks, dyes, binders, glues, varnishes, gums and resins.
FTIR spectroscopy is widely used for the characterization and identification of organic and inorganic materials. It is a vibrational molecular spectroscopy technique that provides information about the functional groups that constitute molecules, which facilitates the molecular identification of all materials under examination.
This technique can provide accurate information on surface contamination, source materials, alterations and degradation products as well as monitoring cleaning and preservation techniques. The data can be used to provide knowledge for appropriate and adequate conservation and restoration strategies.