The book starts with the theoretical basis of linear-dichroic infrared (IR-LD) spectroscopy and then moves on to examine the background of the orientation method of colloid suspensions in a nematic host. It explores the orientation procedure itself, experimental design, and mathematical tools for the interpretation of the IR spectroscopic patterns. Next, the authors describe the structural elucidation of inorganic and organic compounds and glasses. Finally, they discuss applications in pharmaceutical analysis and the chemistry of dyes. Filled with more than 140 illustrations along with a color insert, the book explains both the scope of the polarized IR spectroscopy method as well as its limitations. A powerful source of information not only for specialists in IR spectroscopy, but also for those working in the field of structural analysis, this volume moves the field closer to developing an inherently classical method for the structural characterization of compounds.