Infrared Light on the Composition of the Dust Surrounding Carbon-Rich Stars

We present detailed studies of the infrared spectra of carbon-rich evolved stars. Theses studies yield insight in the composition of the dust surrounding these stars. The presence of some new materials in space has been inferred, leading to a more complete view of the composition, location and density of the dust surrounding carbon-rich old stars. The studies presented in this dissertation further our understanding of the dust surrounding evolved stars and these stars themselves.