Systematic errors in dispersive fourier transform spectroscopy in a non-vacuum environment

Abstract

A simple theory has been developed for the consequences of making dispersive Fourier transform spectroscopic measurements in a non-vacuum environment. Systematic errors are introduced which can be removed if the refractive index of that local atmosphere is known. The results of DFTS measurements on helium gas from 5.5 to 295 K are presented and used to correct previous measurements on the polymers TPX, low and high density polyethylene, and polystyrene in order to demonstrate the method.