Attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy using a special waveguide based on a silver halide fiber was used for probing the heat-induced secondary structure and conformation changes of bovine serum albumin (BSA). From the secondary derivative and the curve fitting of the obtained ATR-FTIR spectra, the changes of the BSA secondary structure with temperature were clearly identified. Two different thermal denaturation temperature ranges (i.e., 50-52 and 80-82 °C, at which a change of the protein structure occurred) were determined, while only one denaturation temperature was previously identified via classical FTIR measurements. Additionally, taking advantage of two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy more detailed information on changes of the protein secondary structure was revealed. The developed method facilitates in situ, sensitive, and more in-depth probing of protein secondary structures, which represents a significant advancement compared to conventional characterization methods.

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In situ detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in aqueous environments is imperative for ensuring the quality and safety of water supplies, yet it remains a challenging analytical task. We present a high-sensitivity method for in situ analysis of multicomponent VOCs at low concentrations based on the use of infrared attenuated total reflection (IR-ATR) spectroscopy. This protocol uses a unique ATR waveguide, which comprises a planar silver halide (AgCl(x)Br(1-x)) fiber with cylindrical extensions at both ends to increase the number of internal reflections, and a polymer coating that traps VOCs and excludes water molecules. Depending on the type of VOC and measurement scenario, IR spectra with specific frequency windows, scan times and spectral resolutions are obtained, from which concentration information is derived. This protocol allows simultaneous detection of multiple VOCs at concentrations around 10 p.p.b., and it enables accurate quantification via a single measurement within 5 min without the need for sample collection or sample pretreatment. This IR-ATR sensor technology will be useful for other applications; we have included a procedure for the analysis of protein conformation changes in Supplementary Methods as an example.