Can we measure the bulk composition of biomolecules present within an algal sample directly by placing its powdered form on a FT-IR spectroscopy stage? Or does it require a particular kind of sample preparation prior to spectroscopy?
The answer depends on the kind of divise or accesory in your FTIR. It is possible to place the sample directly in an ATR. In this kind of device, limitations depends on the sample and the crystal. For ZnSe, sample must be a soft power to avoid crystal damages.