As a result of the massive technological reform which has taken place during the past ten years, virtually every academic and industrial research institution now obtains infrared spectra through the use of Fourier Transform instrumentation. To adequately prepare students who hope to pursue research-oriented careers, the Department of Chemistry at La Salle University has recently acquired a Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectrophotometer which is being used by junior and senior chemistry majors as an integral part of four courses in the undergraduate curriculum: Advanced Quantitative (Instrumental) Analysis, Qualitative Organic Analysis, Advanced Inorganic Chemistry, and Senior Research. Through this experience, undergraduates are better able to understand the Fourier Transform method, learn how to perform peak searches in existing FTIR spectra libraries, and utilize IR spectroscopy as a quantitative technique.
