Thermo Fisher Nicolet iS10 Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectrometer

Overview

The Thermo Fisher Nicolet iS10 Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectrometer is a robust, benchtop analytical instrument engineered for precision molecular identification and quantitative analysis across research, quality control, and regulatory environments. Based on Michelson interferometry, the iS10 acquires infrared absorption spectra by measuring the interference pattern of broadband IR radiation after interaction with a sample—enabling high-fidelity spectral acquisition via Fourier transformation. Its optimized optical path, permanently aligned interferometer, and thermoelectrically cooled deuterated triglycine sulfate (DTGS) detector deliver exceptional stability and reproducibility without requiring routine realignment or liquid nitrogen cooling. Designed for routine laboratory use, the iS10 supports both transmission, attenuated total reflectance (ATR), and reflection measurement modes—making it suitable for solids, liquids, films, powders, and coatings.

Key Features

• Permanently aligned, sealed interferometer with patented “Everest” optical design for long-term alignment stability and minimal maintenance
• High-speed scanning capability of up to 40 interferograms per second, enabling rapid data collection and kinetic studies
• Wavenumber accuracy certified to ±0.01 cm⁻¹ (NIST-traceable), supporting compliance with ASTM E1421 and ISO 18381 standards
• Integrated ATR accessory compatibility (e.g., diamond, ZnSe, or Ge crystals) for direct, solvent-free sampling with minimal preparation
• Onboard spectral library search engine with >20,000 reference spectra (including polymer, pharmaceutical, and contaminant databases)
• Automated performance verification (PV) tests compliant with USP and EP 2.2.24 for routine qualification and audit readiness
• Modular design supporting optional upgrades: NIR module, purge-ready configuration, and external beam port for custom accessories

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Nicolet iS10 accommodates diverse sample forms—including KBr pellets, thin films, microtomed sections, aqueous solutions (with appropriate cells), and heterogeneous surfaces—via interchangeable sampling interfaces. Its ATR mode enables analysis of viscous, opaque, or highly absorbing materials without dilution or pressing. The system meets essential regulatory requirements for GxP environments: full audit trail support in OMNIC software (21 CFR Part 11 compliant when configured with electronic signatures and user-level permissions), GLP-compliant instrument qualification documentation, and traceable calibration against NIST SRM 1921b and 2035. It is routinely deployed in pharmaceutical raw material ID (per USP ), polymer additive screening (ASTM D3418), and environmental microplastic characterization (ISO 20076).

Software & Data Management

Controlled exclusively via Thermo Scientific OMNIC Specta software (v9.x or later), the iS10 provides intuitive workflow-driven operation—from automated background collection and peak integration to multivariate analysis (PCA, PLS). OMNIC includes built-in spectral preprocessing tools (baseline correction, vector normalization, derivative smoothing), customizable report templates, and export options compatible with LIMS (CSV, JCAMP-DX, XML). All raw interferograms and processed spectra are stored with metadata (operator ID, date/time stamp, instrument serial, acquisition parameters), ensuring full data integrity and traceability. Network deployment supports centralized license management and remote diagnostics through Thermo Connect services.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical: Excipient compatibility testing, polymorph screening, counterfeit drug detection, and cleaning validation swab analysis
• Materials Science: Polymer degradation assessment, filler dispersion evaluation, and surface oxidation monitoring
• Environmental: Identification of organic pollutants in soil extracts, microplastic fingerprinting in water filters, and atmospheric particulate functional group mapping
• Food Safety: Adulteration detection (e.g., melamine in milk powder, starch substitution in honey), lipid oxidation tracking, and packaging migration studies
• Academic Research: Reaction monitoring in situ via time-resolved FTIR, catalyst surface adsorption characterization, and biomolecular secondary structure analysis (amide I/II band deconvolution)

FAQ

Is the Nicolet iS10 compatible with modern Windows operating systems?

Yes—the instrument operates natively on Windows 10 and Windows 11 (64-bit) when using OMNIC Specta v9.10 or later. Legacy versions require virtualization for Windows 7 support.
Does the system include factory calibration certificates?

Each refurbished unit undergoes full optical and electronic recalibration at an authorized Thermo service center; a Certificate of Calibration (traceable to NIST) and Performance Verification Report are provided.
Can the iS10 be integrated into an automated lab environment?

It supports RS-232 and Ethernet communication protocols, and OMNIC offers COM/ActiveX API access for integration with LabWare, STARLIMS, or custom SCADA systems.
What maintenance is required beyond routine cleaning?

Annual preventive maintenance (PM) is recommended—primarily involving desiccant replacement, purge gas line inspection, and detector dark current verification—to sustain spectral fidelity and signal-to-noise performance.
Is spectral library licensing included with the instrument?

A perpetual license for the core OMNIC Spectral Libraries (Polymers, Organics, Inorganics, Pharmaceuticals) is bundled; additional libraries (e.g., Forensics, Microbiology) are available as optional purchases.