Application of Optical Theory to Quantitative Surface FT-IR with Emphasis on Molecular Depth Profiling (Commemoration Issue Dedicated to Professor Tohru Takenaka On the Occasion of His Retirement)

Abstract : Applications of optical theory to the study of surface, thin films and coatings have been reviewed. Recent advances in personal computing has made the application of optical theory to an observed spectrum a nearly routine practice. With diversification of infrared techniques which rely on reflection techniques, band shape distortion and frequency shift are common occurrence and the ability to correct for the optical effects has become extremely useful. This article discusses selected topics to demonstrate the usefulness of the application of optical theory. Special emphasis is placed on the quantitative nature of the discussion as well as techniques related to molecular depth profiling.