This article explains what is represented in a Raman spectrum of carbon nanotubes and how to optimise the measurement. There is actually significant diversity within samples of nanotubes which affects both the material properties and the Raman spectrum of the material.

Even though lead in fuel has been banned for a number of years, it is still present in by the roadside, as are many other pollutants from vehicles. The combination of Raman spectroscopy and µ-ED-XRF is of particular value. The advantage Raman has is in the possibility of focusing on individual grains, thereby obtaining the spectrum of each grain that comes from traffic-emitted particles.

This Product Focus is on Raman Spectroscopy; a number of companies have provided information on their key products, their applications and features.

Raman spectroscopy is used to monitor the iodine value of algal-derived fish feed for its lipid content and to monitor algae samples for biofuel production.

Whilst fireworks are a great entertainment, they can also be used for illegal activities as well as potentially containing dangerous chemicals. The combination of Raman spectroscopy and SEM-EDS turns out to be a very efficient analytical method. In fact, these complementary techniques may also be used to analyse other kinds of pyrotechnic artefacts, low explosive formulations, high explosives, explosion residues etc.

Starfruit-shaped gold nanorods could enhance surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) by a factor of 25 compared to similar smooth nanorods.

Praveen Ashok and Kishan Dholakia of St Andrews University, UK, describe the scope of optofluidic devices that can be implemented using the waveguide confined Raman spectroscopy (WCRS) technique they have developed. I am particularly impressed by the sample size of whisky shown in Figure 2—true Scottish style!

A new line of compact fibre-optic Raman probes has been introduced by FiberTech Optica. Combining the company’s knowledge in optics, spectroscopy and manufacturing of precision fibre assemblies, the probes feature an optical configuration designed to enhance both the throughput and the quality of collected Raman spectra. Featuring high collection efficiency optics, internal filtering, about 4 mm working distance, rugged assembly and no moving parts, the probes are packaged in a steel tube about 4 mm in diameter. The design allows for almost real-time collection of data from solid and liquid samples.

A handheld Raman system for rapid identification of suspected narcotics, without direct contact for most samples. A single test for multiple controlled substances provides narcotics officers with clear, definitive results for presumptive identification with no user interpretation. Lightweight and easy to use. Captures all scan results and self check results to help expedite prosecution, and the Admin software stores all scan results with time and date stamps.

A new 3D fast imaging capability for the inVia Raman microscope. The inVia systems—with the StreamLineHR™ imaging option—can now collect and display Raman data from within transparent materials. This provides users with full 3D visualisation of their samples.

Online Raman system weighing about 12 lbs, which is easy to install even while the process is running since it operates through a sight glass. Software supports real time, in-process quality decisions presented in terms suitable for line operators. Observations, analyses and decisions are retained in accordance with industry standards for quality and regulatory compliance.

Small, quality control system for verification of tablets, capsules, bulk powders and liquids. As well as Raman spectroscopy, it analyses colour and size to provide “multi-variant” analysis. Targetted at the chemical and pharmaceutical industries.

Complete Raman software application that guides users through system set up, Raman spectrum data and map acquisition, measurement and data processing, and report generation. This new version has a redesigned interface and data browser, as well as a fully integarted Multivariate Analysis module for characterisation of complex data sets.

A new portable device designed to support law enforcement professionals to perform presumptive test on chemical substances while in challenging situations in the field. The ruggedised unit, using patented technology, identifies prescription drugs within 15 s of analysis in just three step processes.

Micro imaging Raman system for applications in biologics (solids and liquids, comparability, biosimilars, batch release testing), forensics, pharmaceuticals, polymers and semiconductors. It can measure full spectra from 3200 cm–1 to 200 cm–1 including Amide I, II and III, S–S, S–H and C–H bonds. It measures 14″ wide by 11″ high and weighs about 10 lbs (~4.5 kg).

Has a proprietary optical design which narrows the input source without using a slit, allowing high resolution and high throughput simultaneously. Can be used for Raman characterisation, materials identification, chemical analysis, quality control and atomic emission spectroscopy. Two models are available. The Sensei-532 has a spectral range of 480–680 nm and the Sensei-785, 671–1100 nm.

Micro and macro portable real time Raman imaging system. Uses a wavelength sweep which can acquire the full Raman spectrum of all the positions of an image at once. Can acquire and display both the Raman and visible images simultaneously.

A benchtop OEM Raman system with innovative technology which results in rapid data collection of high-resolution spectra and Raman images. It can be configured in a range of variants, which differ in excitation wavelength, spectral coverage, sample handling and software enabling OEM companies to provide a system that is optimised for customers’ requirements.

Researchers from Purdue University in the USA have created a new imaging technology based on Raman spectroscopy that reveals subtle changes in breast tissue, representing a potential tool to determine a woman's risk of developing breast cancer and to study ways of preventing the disease.

A new, single-step method of fabricating microcapsules, which have potential commercial applications as a substrate for surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), and in industries including medicine, agriculture and diagnostics, has been developed by researchers at the University of Cambridge, UK. Their have been published in Science titled “One-Step Fabrication of Supramolecular Microcapsules from Microfluidic Droplets”.