Infrared Absorption Spectra of Certain Organic Compounds, Including the Principal Types Present in Gasoline

The absorption spectra for twenty‐five compounds, of which seventeen are typical of the important components of gasoline and which include both chain and ring molecules, all in the vapor state, have been examined throughout the spectral range 1μ to 30μ, by using prisms of NaCl, KCl and KBr. The percentage absorption is shown graphically in the charts which follow as function of the wave‐length for specified amounts of material. The curves indicate certain distinctive features characteristic of each different molecule, as well as bands common to several or all the compounds. The resolution was not sufficient to separate rotational lines in any of the bands. In addition to the hydrocarbons, eight other substances, tetraethyl lead (the only material studied in the liquid state), tetraethyl germanium, tetramethyl tin, and tetramethyl lead and also aniline, dicyclopentadiene, methyl nitrate and diethyl peroxide were investigated. They were included in the list on account of their influence upon the detonation of fuel in the gasoline engine.