A sample container (100) for use in a ATR-FTIR spectrometer, comprises an internal reflection element “IRE” (101), the IRE comprising a first surface (104) and a second surface (105). The first surface (104) is configured to receive a sample (20) and the second surface (105) is an infrared beam-receiving surface. The IRE (101) forms at least a portion of a wall of the sample container (100), such that in use, when a sample (20) is provided on the first surface (104) of the IRE (101), the sample (20) is provided within the sample container (100).