MAX-iR FTIR Gas Analyzers FAQs

MAX-iR FTIR gas analyzers use Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to identify and quantify gases by measuring their unique infrared absorption “fingerprints” in real time.

MAX-iR FTIR analyzers provide faster, real-time multi-gas analysis with minimal sample prep, while GC is slower and typically analyzes one compound at a time.

MAX-iR analyzers can detect and quantify dozens to hundreds of gases at once using advanced spectral analysis.

They achieve high sensitivity, with detection limits down to single-digit parts per billion (ppb) and even mid parts per trillion (ppt) in some applications.

Yes, they provide continuous, real-time gas monitoring for industrial processes, emissions, and environmental applications.

Industries include chemical manufacturing, semiconductor fabrication, food and beverage, power generation, environmental monitoring, and carbon capture.

They can measure pollutants, greenhouse gases, hazardous air pollutants (HAPs), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and trace impurities.

Advanced FTIR spectral analysis allows accurate gas identification even in complex mixtures with interferences like water, solvents, and hydrocarbons.

StarBoost is a system specialized optics and algorithms that dramatically increases the signal-to-noise ratio, thus improving FTIR sensitivity, linearity, and dynamic range, and enabling ultra-low detection of challenging gases like ethylene oxide and formaldehyde.

Yes, they support regulatory compliance with standards such as EPA Method 320 and OSHA requirements for air quality and emissions monitoring.

The MAX-iR is the core FTIR gas analyzer platform, while the MAX-iAQ, MAX-Bev, and EMS-10 are application-specific systems built around MAX-iR technology. MAX-iAQ is configured for ambient air monitoring, MAX-Bev for CO₂ purity and trace impurity analysis, and EMS-10 for continuous stack and source emissions monitoring.

Yes, systems like MAX-iAQ can monitor up to 20 sampling locations for comprehensive facility-wide gas analysis.

No, they are designed for stable, low-maintenance operation with minimal calibration requirements.

They offer fully automated operation, including data collection, analysis, alarms, reporting, and remote monitoring.

Yes, they integrate with distributed control systems (DCS) and plant networks for seamless process monitoring and data sharing.

Yes, they feature rugged designs, vibration resistance, and durable components for reliable performance in challenging conditions.

The analyzers monitor CO₂ purity and detect impurities in real time, supporting compliance and optimization of carbon capture, utilization, and storage processes.

Applications include workplace safety, cleanroom monitoring, fence-line monitoring, and environmental compliance.

They include advanced software for automated analysis, alarm management, reporting, remote access, and customizable spectral libraries.

They reduce downtime, minimize waste, prevent compliance issues, and optimize processes through real-time, accurate gas analysis.

Yes. FTIR gas analysis can be used for high-purity and ultra-high-purity gas applications when the analyzer is designed for low-level trace impurity detection. The Thermo Scientific MAX-iR FTIR Gas Analyzer supports gas purity and gas certification applications, including sensitive ppb- to ppt-level measurement of trace impurities.

The MAX-iR FTIR Gas Analyzer helps reduce cost of ownership by enabling real-time, multi-component trace impurity analysis in a single platform. This can help reduce reliance on multiple single-component analyzers or offline laboratory methods while simplifying gas purity monitoring workflows.