Chromatography
Gas chromatography
Gas chromatography is used for the separation and qualitative and quantitative analysis of gas mixtures and volatile substances.
- Separation of components, determination of the concentrations of individual substances, e.g. in environmental samples and solvents
- Analysis of gas mixtures for purity and impurities
HPLC – High-Performance Liquid Chromatography
Separation, qualitative and quantitative analysis of liquids (substances that are low in volatility or non-volatile, e.g. dyes, biomolecules).
Separation of components; qualitative and quantitative analysis of constituents and impurities in liquids, e.g. dyes, environmental samples
X-ray techniques
Grazing-incidence X-ray diffraction (GI-XRD)
In grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GI-XRD), an X-ray beam is directed at a sample at a very small angle of incidence, typically less than one degree, causing the X-rays to interact only with the top few nanometres of the material. This results in a diffraction pattern that is highly sensitive to the crystallographic properties of the surface region.
- Used for phase identification and quantification in polycrystalline materials
- Residual stress measurements in thin films and surfaces
- GI-XRD is suitable for all polycrystalline materials where the focus is on the surface layers. It is also useful for thin films where scattering from the substrate may mask or dominate the relatively weak scattering from a thin film.
Single-crystal diffraction
A single-crystal diffractometer measures the diffraction angles and intensities of an X-ray beam as it passes through crystalline materials, from which their crystal structure can be determined. Low-temperature measurements enable the analysis of sensitive or easily decomposable crystals.
- Structural characterisation of new inorganic and organic compounds
- Validation of theoretical calculations and models
- Assessment of crystal quality
- Phase determination
Prof. Dr Hubert Huppertz
Department of General, Inorganic and Theoretical Chemistry
Innrain 80–82, 6020 Innsbruck
+43 (512) 507 57000
Email Website
- Low-temperature single-crystal diffractometry (down to -196 °C)
Professor Volker Kahlenberg
Institute of Mineralogy and Petrography
Innrain 52, 6020 Innsbruck
+43 (512) 507 54603
Email Website
- In-situ single-crystal diffraction
- Crystal structure analysis of inorganic and organic compounds
- Extensive experience with a wide variety of industrial samples from the ceramics, binders, building materials, glass and waste materials sectors, such as slag and ores.
- Analytical services for industrial partners in Austria and other European countries.
X-ray fluorescence
In X-ray fluorescence analysis, the technique of fluorescence spectroscopy is applied to X-rays. The material sample is excited by X-rays; the energy released in the process is emitted in the form of element-specific fluorescent radiation and measured using radiation detectors. X-ray fluorescence analysis enables the identification and concentration determination of all elements with atomic number Z ≥ 5 (i.e. all except: H (hydrogen), He (helium), Li (lithium) and Be (beryllium)).
- X-ray fluorescence enables non-destructive elemental analysis of almost any material.
- Analysis of alloys, quality control
- Analysis of rocks and ores
- Detection of trace impurities (e.g. heavy metals)
X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD)
X-ray powder diffraction is used to identify crystalline phases, determine structure and analyse material properties. It is based on the diffraction of X-rays by the regularly arranged atoms in crystal lattices. To do this, the samples must be ground into a fine, homogeneous powder.
- Phase identification and quantitative phase analysis
- Analysis of phase changes under other specific conditions such as temperature, humidity and applied pressure (non-ambient investigations)
- Analysis of physical properties such as crystallite size, crystallite orientation and residual stress (‘microstructure’ of polycrystalline materials).
- Quality control in the cement, ceramics and steel industries
- Characterisation of new inorganic materials
- Monitoring of hydration processes
- Analysis of mineral compositions
Associate Professor Dr Gunther Heymann
Department of General, Inorganic and Theoretical Chemistry
Innrain 80–82, 6020 Innsbruck
+43 (512) 507 57003
Email Website
- Measurements at room temperature and at temperatures up to 1100 °C
Prof. Dr Hubert Huppertz
Department of General, Inorganic and Theoretical Chemistry
Innrain 80–82, 6020 Innsbruck
+43 (512) 507 57000
Email Website
- High-temperature XRPD
Professor Volker Kahlenberg
Institute of Mineralogy and Petrography
Innrain 52, 6020 Innsbruck
+43 (512) 507 54603
Email Website
- Measurements also using mixtures of various inert and reactive gases, such as He,CO₂,H₂, and CO.
- Qualitative and quantitative phase analysis of crystalline and amorphous phases
- Extensive experience with a wide variety of industrial samples from the ceramics, binders, building materials, glass and waste materials sectors, such as slag and ores.
- Analytical services for industrial partners in Austria and other European countries.
Spectroscopic methods
ATR-FTIR spectroscopy
In ATR-FT-IR spectroscopy (attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy), an infrared light beam is directed insuch a way that it is reflected at least once. This reflection forms a wave that propagates into the sample. The penetration depth into the sample is typically between 0.5 and 2 micrometres. This enables the analysis of samples without complex preparation: surface analysis of opaque materials, analysis of highly absorbent solutions (particularly organic ones) and solids.
- Surface analysis of polymers and coatings
- Industrial quality control
- Analysis of additives and contaminants
Professor Tung Pham
Department of Textile Chemistry
Höchsterstraße 73, 6850 Dornbirn
+43 (5572) 28533
Email Website
- Analysis of solids at ambient pressure
- Hot stage available (temperatures: room temperature to 300 °C)
- Can be combined with microscopy
- Analysis is possible for small sample quantities, provided that resources are available
EDXspectroscopy (energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) is a surface analysis technique in which a focused electron beam scans a sample and triggers characteristic X-rays from the excited atoms — these are detected by a detector as a spectrum. The method enables both qualitative and quantitative conclusions to be drawn regarding the chemical elemental composition and its local distribution, whether at specific points, along a line or across a surface.
- Analysis of residues, contaminants or deposits on sample surfaces
- Measurement of the thickness of thin coatings, used for quality control
Fluorescence spectroscopy
EDX spectroscopy
In fluorescence spectroscopy, the sample is excited by UV/Vis light and the emitted radiation is detected. The method offers exceptionally low detection limits.
- Characterisation of quantum dots and luminescent nanomaterials
- Trace analysis of organic compounds
- Development and testing of optical sensors
- Analysis of environmental samples for fluorescent contaminants
- Quality control of optical materials and displays
Infrared spectroscopy
In IR spectroscopy (infrared spectroscopy), molecules are irradiated with infrared light, which excites them into characteristic vibrations. The resulting absorption spectrum provides a ‘molecular fingerprint’ that allows conclusions to be drawn about the chemical structure.
- Structural elucidation, identification of functional groups
- Verification of synthesised compounds, purity control.
- Determination of fat, protein and water content
- Identification of contaminants
Laser spectroscopy
Laser spectroscopy enables the absorption properties of materials to be measured with high sensitivity: it is possible to conduct experiments across a wide wavelength range, from the ultraviolet to the mid- and far-infrared spectral regions. It is suitable for the analysis of solids, liquids and gases.
- Material characterisation
- Trace analysis
- Investigation of the properties of atoms, molecules and solids
NMR spectroscopy
Nuclear magnetic resonance(abbreviated to NMR) is one of the standard methods used to investigate the structure of organic and organometallic molecules, as well as biomolecules in solution. NMR makes use of the magnetic behaviour of atomic nuclei (such as ¹H, ¹³C or ¹⁹F) in a strong magnetic field.
- Structural characterisation of organic and organometallic compounds
- Structural characterisation of biomolecules
- Investigation of the structural dynamics of these compounds
- Identification of reaction products in synthesis
- Observation and characterisation of reaction kinetics
- Characterisation of polymers and their sequences
- Detection of impurities and degradation products
Raman spectroscopy
In Raman spectroscopy, the material under investigation is irradiated with monochromatic light, usually from a laser. The frequency differences relative to the incident light correspond to the energies characteristic of the material’s rotational, vibrational, phonon or spin-flip processes. Similar to the spectrum obtained in infrared spectroscopy, conclusions about the substance under investigation can be drawn from the resulting spectrum.
- Non-destructive quality control (crystal structures, molecular structures, degrees of cross-linking, degradation processes)
- Identification of unknown substances
Mass spectrometry combined with photodissociation
In mass spectrometry combined with photodissociation, molecules are irradiated with light in order to fragment them in a targeted manner and thus obtain detailed structural information.
- Information about the structure of molecules (e.g. functional groups, types of bonds)
- Information about the properties of chemical bonds
Microscopy
Highly magnified images of surfaces. The following technologies are available:
Analyses in the micro- to nanometre range:
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM): An electron beam scans the sample surface; the interaction provides high-resolution topographical and chemical information.
- Scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM): The operating principle is the same as SEM, but the beam penetrates the (thin) sample and provides information about the internal structures.
Analyses at the atomic level:
- Scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) and scanning tunnelling spectroscopy (STS): STM: At small distances (< 1 nm) between the conductive tip and the sample, a measurable tunnelling current flows, allowing individual atoms and their electronic properties to be visualised. STS additionally provides electronic information about the density of states.
- Atomic force microscopy (AFM): A nanoscopically fine needle is pressed against the sample to be measured by means of a leaf spring, and the atomic forces cause the leaf spring to bend. Unlike STM, non-conductive samples can also be analysed.
- Atomic force microscopy with IR coupling (AFM-IR):This hybrid technique combines the high spatial resolution of AFM with the chemical specificity of IR spectroscopy. The IR-induced thermal expansion of the sample is detected via the AFM tip, thereby yielding chemical information with nanometre resolution.
Analyses in the micro- to nanometre range:
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)
- Characterisation of surface morphology and microstructures
- Particle measurement and shape analysis
- Quality control of coated surfaces
- Material testing of fracture surfaces and signs of wear
- Development of nanostructured materials
Transmission electron microscopy (STEM)
- Atomic structural analysis of nanomaterials
- Characterisation of interfaces and defects
- Phase distribution in nanostructures, chemical analysis at the nanoscale
Analyses at the atomic level:
Scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) and scanning tunnelling spectroscopy (STS)
- Atomic resolution of conductive surfaces
- Investigation of surface reconstructions and defects
- Analysis of adsorption processes at the atomic level
- Determination of local electronic properties
Atomic force microscopy (AFM)
- Topographical characterisation with atomic resolution of non-conductive surfaces
- Investigation of biomolecules under physiological conditions
- Characterisation of 2D materials and thin films
Atomic force microscopy with IR coupling (AFM-IR)
- Investigation of degradation processes in materials
- Development of functional coatings
- Quality control in microelectronics
- Chemical mapping of polymer blends and composites
- Characterisation of membranes and cell structures
Microscopy in ultra-high vacuum at low to room temperature (5–77–300 K)
Scanning tunnelling microscope, scanning tunnelling spectroscopy (STM, STS)
Atomic force microscope (non-contact mode, nc-AFM)
Professor Oliver I. Strube
Department of Chemical Engineering
Innrain 80–82, 6020 Innsbruck
+43 (512) 507 55300
Email Website
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)
Scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM)
Atomic force microscopy with IR coupling (AFM-IR)
scanning electron microscope
Other analytical methods
Electroanalytics
Various electrochemical methods are available:
In cyclovoltammetry,the voltage at an electrode is cyclically varied and the resulting current is measured. This produces a characteristic current-voltage diagram (cyclovoltammogram), which provides information about redox processes.
Chronopotentiometry: In this method, a constant current is applied through an electrochemical cell and the resulting potential is measured over time.
Chronoamperometry: A constant potential is applied ( usually as a step from one value to another) and the resulting current is measured over time.
Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS): In this technique, a small sinusoidal alternating voltage with a variable frequency is applied and the impedance (complex resistance) of the system is measured. This provides information about resistances, capacitances and other processes within the system.
Cyclovoltammetry
- Determination of redox potentials and electron transfer kinetics
- Investigation of electrode processes and reaction mechanisms
- Characterisation of batteries, fuel cells and corrosion processes
- Development of electrochemical sensors
Chronopotentiometry
- Determination of diffusion coefficients
- Investigation of reaction mechanisms
- Analysis of the kinetics of electrochemical processes
Chronoamperometry
- Investigation of diffusion processes
- Determination of electrode reaction rates
- Sensor technology
- Corrosion studies
- Characterisation of catalytic surfaces
Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS)
- Corrosion research
- Coating characterisation
- Biosensors
- Investigation of interfacial processes
ESR spectroscopy
- Analysis of transition metal complexes and their oxidation states
- Detection and characterisation of free radicals in chemical reactions
- Investigation of defects in semiconductor materials
- Structural elucidation of organometallic compounds
- Analysis of biological systems with metal cofactors
Electron spin spectroscopy enables the analysis of substances containing unpaired electrons (e.g. paramagnetic complexes, free radicals). Microwave irradiation induces transitions between different spin states, which produce characteristic spectra.
Particle sizes and zeta potential
Dynamic light scattering can be used to accurately determine particle sizes ranging from 1 nm to 10 µm, as well as their distribution within the sample. In addition, particle concentrations can be determined.
In addition to dynamic light scattering, it is also possible, to a certain extent, to measure static light scattering. This is mainly used to determine the average molecular weight of the polymer particles.
- Characterisation of solutions/dispersions
- Time-resolved measurements, e.g. of protein aggregation or enzymatic processes
- Stability of dispersions
Rheology
Rheology deals with the deformation and flow behaviour of matter. The groups within the FSP FunMat offer a range of methods:
Rheometry: measurement of the flow and deformation properties of materials under mechanical stress
Density measurement
Viscosity measurement: dynamic viscosity, intrinsic viscosity, molecular weight of polymers
Rheometry
- Flow behaviour of liquids and pastes
- Processability of plastics
Density measurement
- Purity testing of chemicals and solvents
- Porosity of foams
- Degree of cross-linking in thermosets
Viscosity measurement
- Measurements possible with as little as 100 µl of sample
- Polymerisation behaviour
- Flow behaviour of adhesives
- Pumpability of suspensions and pastes
- Spray behaviour of coatings
- Drip behaviour of dispensing fluids
Measurement of force and strain in textiles
Strength and elongation testing of textiles is an important testing method in the textile industry, used to investigate the mechanical properties of textile materials.
- Quality control: Checking whether textiles meet the required strength specifications
- Material selection: Comparing different fabrics for specific applications
- Product development: Optimising woven fabrics, knitted fabrics or technical textiles
Thermal analyses
Thermal analysis examines the properties and changes in materials as a function of temperature. Several methods are used for this purpose:
- DSC (Dynamic Differential Scanning Calorimetry) and DTA (Differential Thermal Analysis): measurement of heat released or absorbed during heating, determination of phase transitions
- TGA (thermogravimetry): change in the mass of a sample as a function of temperature or time
- DMA (Dynamic Mechanical Analysis): analysis of the viscoelasticity of polymers
- DMTA (Dynamic Mechanical Thermal Analysis) under strain: the sample is subjected to tensile forces to determine viscoelastic properties
These methods can be coupled with a mass spectrometer (MS) to identify the decomposition products.
- DTA: Analysis of mineral materials, e.g. the dewatering of clays and the formation of clinker phases in cement raw meal; measurement of the heat of reaction during the combustion of organic materials; characterisation of plastics
- DSC: Determination of melting and crystallisation enthalpies, measurement of specific heat capacity, quantification of reaction enthalpies, purity determination via melting point depression
- TGA: Analysis of thermal stability and oxidation stability, compositional analysis, determination of moisture, volatile components and ash, analysis of minerals and their decomposition behaviour, purity determination, water content in hydrates and salts, solvent residues
- DMA: Determination of glass transition temperature and rheological properties of plastics
DMTA under strain: Fibre characterisation, temperature stability, ageing and strain behaviour of fibres
Professor Hubert Huppertz
Department of General, Inorganic and Theoretical Chemistry
Innrain 80–82, 6020 Innsbruck
+43 (512) 507 57000
Email Website
DSC, DTA and TGA
Prof. Dr Pham Tung
Institute of Textile Chemistry
Höchsterstraße 73, 6850 Dornbirn
+43 (5572) 28533
Email Website
DSC, TGA and DMTA under strain
- Analysis of solids at ambient pressure
- -20 °C to 1000 °C
- Analysis is possible for small sample quantities, provided that resources are available
Professor Volker Kahlenberg
Institute of Mineralogy and Petrography
Innrain 52f, 6020 Innsbruck
+43 (512) 507 54603
Email Website
DTA and TGA coupled with MS
Extensive experience with a wide variety of industrial samples from the ceramics, binders, building materials, glass and waste materials sectors, such as slag and ores
Analytical services for industrial partners in Austria and other European countries.
UV-VIS (NIR) spectroscopy
UV-Vis-(NIR) spectrophotometers measure the absorption, transmission and reflection properties of solutions or solids (transparent samples or thin films/layers). This involves using light in the ultraviolet (100–380 nm), visible (380–780 nm) and near-infrared (780–3000 nm) regions. Using models, a wide variety of material parameters can be calculated from this data, which can be used for quality control, amongst other things.
- Purity testing
- Identification and quantification
- Measurement of the thickness of thin (0.1 µm – several µm) or transparent layers
- Determination of colour tones, haze and UV resistance of filters, coloured coatings, films, mirrors, etc.
- Determination of the amount of light absorbed
- Relative absorption of two signals
- Determination of reaction kinetics
Other services offered by FSP FunMat
Sample preparation
Climate chamber
Mills
Manufacturing and synthesis
Additive manufacturing of metals
High-temperature synthesis
Mechanochemistry