Analysis of Printed Paper via Micro-ATR Mapping

Abstract

The surface of printed paper has been examined through a fully automated attenuated total reflection (ATR) mapping technique. Automated z-axis control was utilized to bring the sample into contact with the ATR objective in a reproducible manner and an integrated mapping stage was used to position the sample. A force sensing device, the Contact Alert, was used to ensure optimal contact between the sample and internal reflection element Global manipulations of the resultant data revealed compositional differences attributed to the printed ink, carbonate and cellulose distributions. These differences were clearly evident in the infrared, but not discemable in the visible. The bulk filler Kaolinite was identified as a post processing contaminate as well as a trace mixture of Dioctyl Phthalate and an aromatic acrylate.