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This novel horizontal ATR mini-sampler is perfect for examining samples that are difficult to analyze by conventional infrared spectroscopy. Such samples include solids, such as slightly curved and inflexible materials, powders, micro-liters of liquids and pastes.
The MVP-Pro™ utilizes all front-surface aluminum mirrors to focus the spectrometer beam to and from the ATR crystal. The Si ATR crystal is hemispherical, additionally focusing the beam to produce a 0.5mm diameter sampling area. The accessory is enclosed in a purgable box for rapid sample exchange without interrupting the purge of the FTIR spectrometer.
For applications requiring different penetration depths or chemical resistance, ZnSe and Ge hemispherical ATR crystals are also offered, pre-mounted in their sampling plates. In addition, a monolithic diamond prism ATR crystal is available.
For making contact with solid and powder samples, the MVP-Pro™ is equipped with a built-in pressure applicator with slip-clutch for consistent and reproducible results. For more fragile ATR crystals,i.e. ZnSe and Ge, a compatible low-torque slip-clutch is available. For more precise force measurements, a pressure applicator with built-in force sensor and display is offered.
Heatable sampling plates are also available for operation up to 200°C with diamond and ZnSe or up to 100°C with a Ge ATR crystal. The Heatable Sampling Plates feature a K-type thermocouple and cartridge heater. These are intended for operation with the Harrick's Temperature Controller. For easy sampling of powders and liquids, an optional Powder Retainer and Flow-Through Liquid Cell are available.Both of these sampling accessories attach to the sampling plates and are sealed with a Viton o-ring. The Powder Retainer is designed to contain the powder in a restricted volume and requires approx. 0.1 ml for operation. The Flow-Through Liquid Cell is a micro-cell with a volume of approx. 0.15 ml and features Luer Lok fittings for introduction of the sample.
Figure 1. ATR Spectra of a Painting Pad Showing the Stiff Backer (top),the Compressible Sponge (middle) and the Soft Bristles (bottom).

Figure 2. Anatomy of a Paint Brush: ATR Spectra of the Plastic Handle (top) and Bristles (bottom), left.
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Representative infrared spectra recorded are shown in Figures 1 through 4. Figure 1 shows the ATR spectra of various parts of a Shur-Line Trim and Touch-Up Pad for painting. As seen in the spectra, all three components have different compositions.
Figure 2 shows the spectra from two parts of a traditional paint brush.Spectra from the hard plastic handle and a clump of the bristles are both readily measured with the MVP-Pro™.

Figure 3. ATR Spectra of Wooden Paint Stirrer Unused (top), Covered with Dry Brown Paint (middle) and Covered with Dry White Paint (bottom).

Figure 4. ATR spectra of Oil-Based Primer Wet (top) and Dried Residue (bottom), left.
Figure 3 shows the infrared spectra of the paint stirrer and dried paint thereon. Spectral differences are clearly visible between
the two types of paint and their substrate.
Figure 4 shows Zinsser Primer Sealer Stain Killer Bond Coat. The changes in the relative intensities of the bands at 3000 cm-1 and those at 1400 cm-1 are indicative of the evaporation of the organic solvent used in the primer.
The MVP-Pro™ is perfect for routine analysis of a variety of materials. Liquids, pastes, powders and solids are all readily examined.
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