The infrared spectra of oxidized human hair, callus, and wool were examined. An absorption band at 9.6 μ was observed in the spectra of all the oxidized species, whereas the untreated keratin did not absorb at that wavelength. The nature of the group responsible for the band is not clear, but it was established that infrared absorption by keratin at 9.6 μ is a specific test for a prior oxidative treatment.
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