Computer-assisted multicomponent spectral analysis with fuzzy data sets

A new approach to the interpretation of spectra with “fuzzy sets” is described. A computer program CIF (Compound Identification with Fuzzy sets) is applied. This program is capable of finding components in a mixture by comparing the sample spectrum with reference spectra in a library. The applications discussed involve the interpretation of infrared spectra. The problems of spectral library search are discussed, an elementary introduction to fuzzy set theory is given, and applications to spectral library search are demonstrated.