Shimadzu IRPrestige-21 Used Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectrometer
| Brand | Shimadzu |
|---|---|
| Origin | Japan |
| Model | IRPrestige-21 |
| Instrument Type | Laboratory FTIR Spectrometer |
| Wavenumber Range | 7800–400 cm⁻¹ |
| Spectral Resolution | 0.85 cm⁻¹ |
| Scan Velocity | 0.2–2.5 cm/s |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 15,000:1 |
Overview
The Shimadzu IRPrestige-21 is a high-performance, laboratory-grade Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrometer engineered for precise molecular identification and quantitative analysis of organic and inorganic materials. Based on Michelson interferometry, the instrument acquires full-spectrum interferograms via a dynamically aligned moving mirror system, enabling rapid data collection with inherent wavelength accuracy traceable to He–Ne laser calibration. Its optical design incorporates a thermoelectrically cooled deuterated triglycine sulfate (DTGS) detector and a high-stability KBr beam splitter—optimized for routine mid-IR measurements across the 7800–400 cm⁻¹ spectral window. Designed for robust daily operation in QC laboratories, academic research facilities, and contract testing environments, the IRPrestige-21 delivers reproducible spectra with a nominal resolution of 0.85 cm⁻¹ and a signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 15,000:1 (at 4 cm⁻¹ resolution, 1-minute scan), meeting baseline requirements for ASTM E1421, ISO 18389, and pharmacopeial infrared identification tests (e.g., USP ).
Key Features
- Stable, sealed interferometer with automated alignment compensation—minimizes drift during extended acquisition sequences
- High-speed scanning capability (0.2–2.5 cm/s) supporting both rapid screening and high-resolution mapping applications
- Dual-mode operation: supports standard transmission, ATR (attenuated total reflectance), and diffuse reflectance configurations with compatible accessories
- Integrated purge interface for dry-air or nitrogen purging—critical for eliminating atmospheric CO₂ and H₂O vapor interference below 2000 cm⁻¹
- Modular sample compartment accommodating standard 10 × 10 mm cuvettes, micro-ATR stages, and macro-reflection stands
- Low-maintenance optical train featuring hardened aluminum optics and anti-reflective coated CaF₂ windows
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The IRPrestige-21 accommodates solid, liquid, and semi-solid samples through interchangeable sampling modules—including single-bounce diamond ATR, KBr pellet press kits, and gas cells with pathlengths from 0.1 to 10 cm. It complies with essential regulatory frameworks governing analytical instrumentation: data integrity features support 21 CFR Part 11-compliant workflows when paired with validated software; spectral libraries (e.g., SDBS, Polymer, Pharma) are structured to align with ICH Q5A and USP general chapters. All hardware components meet CE marking requirements for electromagnetic compatibility (EN 61326-1) and safety (EN 61010-1). Routine performance verification follows Shimadzu’s recommended PVM (Performance Verification Method) protocol, including polystyrene film validation per ASTM E1421.
Software & Data Management
The system operates with IRsolution™ v1.x software (original Shimadzu release), providing full control over acquisition parameters, real-time FFT processing, and advanced post-processing tools—including baseline correction (Rubberband, Concave), peak integration, second-derivative analysis, and spectral subtraction. Data files adhere to JCAMP-DX v5.01 format for cross-platform interoperability. Audit trail functionality records user actions, parameter changes, and calibration events—enabling GLP/GMP-aligned documentation. Export options include CSV, ASCII, and PDF reports with embedded metadata (date/time, operator ID, instrument serial number). Software supports spectral library search (hit quality index, correlation coefficient), mixture analysis via classical least-squares (CLS), and customizable report templates compliant with internal SOPs.
Applications
- Pharmaceutical raw material identification and polymorph screening per USP
- Polymer composition analysis, additive quantification, and degradation monitoring in R&D and QA labs
- Environmental contaminant profiling—including microplastics (FTIR imaging mode optional), pesticide residues, and PFAS fingerprinting
- Food authenticity verification (e.g., adulteration detection in edible oils, honey, dairy products)
- Forensic trace evidence characterization (fibers, paints, adhesives)
- Academic research in catalysis, surface chemistry, and biomolecular conformation studies
FAQ
Is the IRPrestige-21 compatible with modern Windows operating systems?
Yes—when deployed with IRsolution v1.61 or later, the instrument supports Windows 10 (64-bit) and Windows 11 (64-bit) under Shimadzu’s certified driver environment.
Does the unit include a factory calibration certificate?
Each refurbished IRPrestige-21 undergoes full functional verification at an authorized Shimadzu service center and ships with a traceable performance test report covering wavenumber accuracy, resolution, and SNR.
Can ATR accessories be added post-purchase?
Yes—the sample compartment is fully compatible with Shimadzu’s lineup of single-bounce ZnSe, diamond, and Ge ATR accessories, all installable without optical recalibration.
What maintenance is required for long-term stability?
Routine maintenance includes desiccant replacement every 6 months, periodic purge gas line inspection, and annual interferometer alignment verification using the built-in diagnostic utility.
Is remote diagnostics supported?
The system supports TCP/IP-based communication for secure remote access via Shimadzu’s ServiceLink™ protocol—enabling firmware updates and troubleshooting by certified engineers.
