Near-infrared and Raman spectroscopy for polymer analysis: An introduction

Polymers are indispensable to our lives. Their durability, versatility, and cost-effectiveness depend on efficient manufacturing practices and stringent quality control (QC). Effective QC ensures that plastics meet stringent standards at every stage of production, from raw material inspection and polymerization monitoring to additive control and final product evaluation. Implementing systematic QC not only enhances product reliability but also optimizes manufacturing efficiency.

Plastic producers, compounders, processors, and others in this industry are increasingly adopting advanced QC practices to reduce costs, stay competitive, and address resource constraints. To maintain high quality standards and drive innovation, the polymer industry relies on advanced analytical techniques like Raman spectroscopy and near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. The growing use of spectroscopic techniques for QC mitigates human error, enhances safety by reducing direct chemical exposure, and streamlines laboratory workflows. These complementary methods enable rapid, nondestructive, and precise analysis of polymers at various production stages. Their ability to provide fast and accurate results makes them indispensable tools for both routine QC and research applications.

By strategically combining both of these techniques, polymer manufacturers can achieve a deeper understanding of their incoming and finished materials, improve product quality, reduce waste, and enhance overall efficiency.

Discover the many benefits of using NIR and Raman spectroscopy for polymer analysis in our e-book. This e-book provides a brief introduction to both analytical techniques and an overview where each is best utilized in the polymer manufacturing process along with several application examples, including:

• Polymer identification/verification
• Polyamide (PA)
• Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
• Polyolefins
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
• Polyurethane (PU)
• Polystyrene (PS)
• Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)
• Polyester (PES)
• Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)

In addition, the following topics are covered:

• Polymer applications using specialized Raman technology
• Unique Raman and NIR solutions from Metrohm
• Further information about using NIR, Raman spectroscopy, and Process Analytical Technology (PAT) for polymer analysis

Unlock the full potential of spectroscopy for polymer analysis both in and out of the lab. Download the e-book now to learn more about more efficient and cost-effective QC for the polymer industry with NIR and Raman spectroscopy.