Industrial Applications of Raman Spectroscopy

Abstract

Raman spectroscopy is a multi-faceted technique which, in its various forms, utilises all of the properties of lasers that make them valuable as excitation sources for spectroscopy. For example, the monochromaticity, spatial coherence, polarisation, tunability, brightness and ability to run in pulsed mode are all vital properties that are exploited in various forms of Raman spectroscopy. Furthermore, the ability to collect data in a non-contacting manner over long distances, using fibre-optic probes, is becoming important for remote sampling and process monitoring. Raman spectroscopy probably represents the single largest application of laser spectroscopy in industrial analysis, a position which is expanding with the improved performance available from modern spectrometers, filters and detectors. This is reinforced by the unique capability to obtain Raman data from almost any sample irrespective of its physical form, in contrast to a great many spectroscopies which place constraints on sample presentation or preparation.