The non-destructive nature and ability to provide valuable chemical information make IR spectroscopy a versatile technique with broad applications in various scientific and industrial fields. IR spectroscopy is commonly used to identify and characterize organic and inorganic compounds. It provides information about the functional groups present in a molecule and the bonding between atoms. This helps in the structural elucidation of compounds during organic synthesis, pharmaceutical research, and materials science. IR spectroscopy plays a significant role in detecting and quantifying environmental pollutants. It is employed in analyzing air quality by identifying and quantifying atmospheric pollutants. Similarly, it is used to assess water quality and analyze contaminants in soil samples, making IR spectroscopy a critical application in environmental monitoring, pollution control, and remediation efforts.

IR spectroscopy is valuable in forensic science for identifying and analyzing trace evidence at crime scenes. It can provide crucial information about the chemical composition of fibers, explosives, and drugs which helps in linking evidence to suspects and supporting legal investigations. IR spectroscopy is utilized in the fields of art conservation and archaeology. It helps analyze and characterize materials used in artworks, historical artifacts, and cultural heritage objects. By studying the molecular composition of pigments, dyes, binders, and other materials, IR spectroscopy assists in authentication, conservation, and preservation efforts. IR spectroscopy has numerous applications in biomedical research, helping study biomolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates. This technique provides insights into the secondary structure of proteins, protein folding, and interactions between biomolecules. It is also used for disease diagnosis, identifying biomarkers, and studying drug-target interactions for drug discovery and development.