Vol. 8, Issue 1, Part A (2026)

Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a powerful analytical technique for investigating the molecular composition and chemical properties of oils. This study focuses on the FTIR analysis of linseed oil, a widely used drying oil rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, to characterize its functional groups and assess its chemical structure. The oil sample was analyzed in the mid-infrared region (4000-400 cm-1) to identify characteristic absorption bands corresponding to hydroxyl (-OH), carbonyl (C=O), and unsaturated (C=C) groups. Prominent peaks were observed at ~1745 cm-1, indicating ester carbonyl stretching, and at ~3010 cm⁻¹, associated with =C-H stretching of unsaturated fatty acids. Additional bands corresponding to -CH2 and -CH3 stretching (~2920 cm-1 and ~2850 cm-1) and C-O stretching (~1160 cm-1) were also identified. The FTIR spectral profile provided insight into the degree of unsaturation and oxidative state of linseed oil, which is crucial for its applications in coatings, paints, and polymer formulations. The study demonstrates that FTIR spectroscopy offers a rapid, non-destructive, and reliable method for characterizing linseed oil and monitoring its quality.