IR sample preparation for solid samples
What is a mull? a mull a suspension of solid sample in mineral oil It is used to make a thin-film cell from a solid sample
Thin film IR cells Salt (NaCl) discs are used To hold the sample So the holder won’t absorb infrared light and only sample absorption is detected
Sample preparation so dry the sample well because water etches the IR discs and emulsifies with oil letting less light through
How do I make a mull? grind the sample to a smooth powder add mineral oil and mix it well
What should the mull be like? should look and spread like soft butter
use clean gloves to work with salt discs put on an extra pair of gloves to protect cells from anything aqueous on your regular gloves
applying the mull use a rubber policeman to spread a thin layer on one disc lower the 2nd disc on top of the 1st and twist the discs to spread sample evenly
placing discs in cell holder use your finger to make a platform in the cell holder lower in the NaCl discs do not wedge them
gently place lid on top slide into position in light beam
close sample compartment remove gloves before using keyboard
to clean discs add a few drops of chloroform to each disc rub gently to clean off all traces of sample …
Keep discs dry replace in desiccator after cleaning …