The potential of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) as an analytical technique for archaeological organic residues is being investigated. The application of diffuse reflectance spectroscopy to FT-IR has made the analysis of small amounts of solid sample quick and reliable with minimal preparation. The FT-IR spectrometer has computer facilities that are being used to compile a reference library of mineralogical specimens of bitumens, asphalts, resins, gum resins, shellacs and waxes. The computer is also used to compare spectra of unknown residues with the reference library. Silicon carbide paper is being utilised to prepare the sample and as the sampling medium. The coating of a Gaudier Brzska sculpture and the residue from the linen attached to an Egyptian cartonnage have been identified using diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and computerised search of the reference library. Future work includes the use of an infrared microscope.