Infrared spectroscopy is useful for identifying substances and confirming their identity. With the technology of FTIR spectroscopy (Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy) machines and integrated computer databases of known IR absorbance graphs, nearly any substance can be identified. For example, IR can be used to locate the make, model, and year of car by analyzing a paint chip. Click on the links below to see how IR is used to help solve crimes.