Affordable Alternative to FTIR Spectroscopy

18 Sep 2019

The Ocean MZ5 is both a research tool and a core technology for integration into fully customized solutions for applications such as fuel monitoring and detection of food adulterants. For the lab, MZ5’s small size and ease of use make it an ideal benchtop/fume hood device, which is how we used it for this study. University and institutional researchers investigating biofuels and other energy sources will also appreciate the MZ5’s versatility.

For offline applications, MZ5 can anchor a devoted R&D station where process scientists analyze new additives and mixes and build spectral databases. In addition, QC stations within process lines can utilize MZ5 to spot check process fluid streams.

The Ocean MZ5 is a miniature ATR spectrometer with measurement capabilities from 1818–909 cm-1 (5.5-11 µm). This fully selfcontained instrument -- including sample interface, light source and detector -- provides a compact, fast and scalable alternative to traditional FTIR spectroscopy. applications include chemical discrimination, food and flavorings analysis, environmental testing and scientific research.

Ocean MZ5 is a complete system and does not require any external equipment such as light sources or fibers. Ocean Mirror, the dedicated software platform that comes with the system, is designed for measuring absorbance and transmittance of liquids placed on the instrument’s crystal surface. A rotating cover protects the crystal when not in use.

Application Area Examples

Fuel Analysis Fatty acids content in biodiesel

Octane level testing

Ethanol spiking in gasoline

Materials Identification Biomaterial analysis

Solvent analysis

Polymer analysis

Farm to Table Technologies Agricultural measurements and monitoring

Food and beverage quality control

Food safety

Anti-Counterfeit Testing and qualification

Identification and authentication of samples