Recent applications and current trends in analytical chemistry using synchrotron-based Fourier-transform infrared microspectroscopy

Synchrotron radiation based Fourier-transform infrared (SR-FTIR) microspectroscopy is an emerging technique, which is increasingly employed in analytical sciences. This technique combines FTIR spectroscopy (namely specific identification of molecular groups within a variety of environments: organic/inorganic, crystallized/amorphous, solid/liquid/gas) with high brightness, and therefore small spot size and faster acquisition of high-quality spectral imaging data from a synchrotron light source.In this article, we review several recent applications of SR-FTIR that have led to much of the improved analytical capabilities. Performing analytical science at large-scale facilities allows one to access state-of-the-art equipment and capabilities, receive expert assistance from the facility staff, and have the possibility of combining SR-FTIR microscopy with other synchrotron-based X-ray microimaging techniques.