Abstract
The immense information potential of infrared spectroscopy on adsorbed layers on metal surfaces is difficult to realize since signal strengths lie near to the limits of detection using present techniques. Previous work has been directed at increasing signal strength; a reduction of the noise level is the goal of the present contribution. Two possible methods are suggested, a synchronous differentiating method and a calorimetric technique whereby only absorbed radiation is detected. The first is a common procedure in other similar applications, for example Auger spectroscopy, and a practical approach to the second method is suggested.