Question

what are two problems that could arise in the preparation of a kbr pellet for ir analysis?

Answer 1

The two faults along with cause and the methods to fix them are given as under:

1)FAULT: KBr pellet lacking optical clarity.

CAUSES OF FAULT:

(i)Sample containing moisture.

(ii)Contaminated KBr powder.

(iii)Insufficient pressure applied when pressing.

REMEDY:

(i)Drying the sample powder to remove moisture.

(ii)Using pure KBr powder.

(ii)Increasing the pressure by press to reach a sufficient pressure.

2) FAULT: KBr pellet clear with some opaque spots.

  CAUSES OF FAULTS:

(i)Non uniform flatness in pellet due to the presence of large particles which do not vitrify when pressed.

REMEDY:

Use Sieve for pellet powder to extract coarse grains, then re- . grind and re-press.