Based on own research activities this survey demonstrates the potential applications of FTIR spectroscopy in wood and wood-product research. This rapid method can be used e.g. with success for determination of lignin in woody materials and pulps. Crucial analytical data of lignins were also determined by quantitative evaluation of FTIR data. The degree of substitution of cellulose derivatives can be estimated. The course of delignification during pulping was monitored using transmission and circular ATR cells for the IR spectroscopy of the cooking liquors. Based on these spectra the Kappa number of pulps can be predicted.