A novel algorithm: Tool to quantifying rubber blends from infrared spectrum

Abstract

Infrared (IR) spectroscopy can be used to detect the polymers present in a blend, provided the unique characteristic peaks of the polymers are known. However, quantification of such a blend is not possible without modifying the spectrum because of vertical baseline shifting, attributed to various reasons. The present work deals with the explanation of a uniquely derived algorithm for baseline creation on and subsequent subtraction from the originally obtained spectrum. Using the algorithm, a scientific baseline fit was achieved which carved the way to find the exact relative peak heights of the polymers constituting a blend. The logical approach to frame the algorithm is the subject matter of the work. An introduction to using the algorithm for experimental quantification of a binary rubber blend is also provided. Of course, it is a general approach and can be used with equal effectiveness for any other binary compositions. © 2017 Taylor & Francis Group, London, UK.