As a Process Analytical Technology (PAT) tool, the NIR (Near Infrared) analyser is the next generation technology for analysing solid and liquid chemical and pharmaceutical formulations. The patented design of NIR offers superior analytical performance with increased sensitivity and precise instrument matching to enhance method development, minimize implementation time and ensure seamless method transferability.
Near Infrared Analysis is perfect for the rapid non-destructive quantification of many constituents-including protein, moisture and fat. NIR analyser measures both liquid and powder samples without removing the sampling or optical accessories. The detector used is a DTGC detector. When changing between liquid and solid analysis, a simple manual lever is rotated to open or close a shutter between the side port and the top bench. Liquid samples are measured in transmission with disposable 8 mm vials. Powder samples are measured on the side port accessory in reflectance through disposable scintillation vials.
NIR analyser can be used throughout your manufacturing processes-from raw material inspection and in process testing to final product release. It is a relatively new technology for refineries to monitor main products, intermediate streams and unit feed. NIR analyser offered a low cost alternative to traditional gas chromatographs or distillation analysers. Unlike Gas Chromatographs, NIR probes are 100% optical, use no electricity and contain no moving parts. Multiple properties can be measured with one analyser head. NIR analyser is ideal to use in laboratories as well as in plant environments.
For pharmaceutical and chemical industries, NIR analysis provides increased economic benefits, improved tests and analysis on the dock, in the lab and on the process line. NIR testing is completely safe and requires no sample preparation. No harmful waste is created since NIR analysis requires no solvents or reagents. It can reduce the cost of routine testing by more than 50% depending on the application.
How to use it
Before testing, place the instrument on a horizontal, hard and stable surface away from sunlight. The warming up period is about 2 hours. The user should ensure that the temperature of the room where the analyser is stored be 10 to 40 degree C.
Near Infrared (NIR) analyser is used as a cost-effective means of measuring product or process consistency and quality control parameter in organic chemical-related or food industries.
Traditional laboratory methods are cumbersome, expensive and require trained personnel. These methods are too slow to allow sufficient reaction time for control of the process. Now, NIR analysers have replaced most of the traditional methods. These analysers can be placed directly in the production area and can be operated by plant personnel. The analysis time is less than one minute. This eliminates individual analysis on each constituent and saves manpower, training and time.
This article is issue in public interest by Applied Instrument Technologies (AIT) is the process analytical technology business within Hamilton Sundstrand, a United Technologies company. AIT delivers process analytical technology solutions to the leading companies of the world. We design and manufacture robust process development and on-line analyzers for quantitative and qualitative analysis.
