Chemical Applications of Low Temperature Infrared Spectroscopy — An Overview

Abstract

The effect of low temperatures an infrared spectra have been investigated for nearly 4o years, but only in the last few years has it become a common technique. Although many of the effects noted are well-understood, it has become apparent recently, that there remain many unexplained phenomena which occur in various compounds. These appear to be related to the dynamics of crystalline state, another field which is just beginning to be understood.

A brief review of some of the classical effects will be made and examples discussed and then some of the less well-understood phenomena will be discussed. Particular attention will be paid to hydrogen-bonded systems.

The discussion will include only stable molecules whose spectra are taken in condensed phases and will omit matrix isolation work. Brief mention will be made of low temperature infrared spectroscopy’s potential for identification and analysis work.