Quantitative multi-component analysis of copper cyanide strike solutions using partial least squares analysis of Fourier Transform-Infrared Spectra

Spectra of copper cyanide solutions, similar to those of copper strike-plating baths, have been investigated with Fourier Transform-Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy using a Horizontal Attenuated Total Reflectance (HATR) accessory in order to determine the chemical composition of the solutions. Three components, total copper, total cyanide, and carbonate, have been examined at concentration ranges of 0.1–0.3 M for total copper, 0.3–1.0 M for total cyanide, and 0.0–0.9 M for carbonate. Partial least squares analysis of the spectra yields correlation coefficients of greater than 0.999 for all species. This research shows that FTIR spectroscopy can provide rapid, accurate quantitative analysis of copper cyanide solutions.