How Do I Use Sadtler Standard Spectra?

The Sadtler Standard Spectra is one of the largest published collections of chemical spectra. Each spectrum contains pertinent information about the compounds being analyzed and instrumental information about the measurement. The compounds represented in these sets are almost exclusively organic. There are three sets which are collected in green, loose-leaf binders in our Reference Collection located in the basement of Thode.

1. Infrared Prism
2. Ultraviolet
3. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance

Cumulative indices provide an easy method for locating spectral data for all compounds in the collection. They are shelved together at the end of the Sadtler Standard Spectra sets and are divided into four sections: Alphabetical, Chemical Class, Molecular Formula, and Numerical.  To avoid nomenclature problems, it's best to start with the Molecular Formula indexes (the compounds are arranged in Hill system order, with Carbon first, followed by Hydrogen, then the other elements alphabetically). After locating your compound in the index, note the reference number from the appropriate column on the right, and then consult the appropriate Sadtler set and volume. For more information on using the indices, consult Sadtler Standard Spectra Indices.

To find other spectra not included in the Sadtler Standard Spectra, try one of these online resources:

• SciFinder-n
• NIST Chemistry WebBook
• SDBS, Spectral Database System