Abstract
The infrared absorption spectra of steroids, when compared with the spectra of Authentic Specimens, provide a simple and complete means of identification, provided that the effects of polymorphism are precluded. Of 35 substances examined, 16 showed no evidence of polymorphism and a further twelve were sufficiently soluble to be examined in solution. Specific solvent treatments, details of which are given, may be necessary with the remaining seven substances if the spectra of the sample and of the Authentic Specimen are not identical when first examined.