Ramanspektromeetrid

Ramanspektromeetrid, known in English as Raman spectrometers, are analytical instruments used to identify and characterize materials based on their molecular vibrations. They operate on the principle of Raman scattering, a phenomenon discovered by Sir C.V. Raman in 1928, where incident light interacts with molecular vibrations, resulting in scattered light with a shifted wavelength that contains information about the material’s chemical composition and molecular structure.

A typical Raman spectrometer consists of a laser source, a sample illumination system, a wavelength selector or filter, a detector, and a data processing unit. The laser illuminates the sample with monochromatic light, usually in the visible, near-infrared, or ultraviolet range. The scattered light is collected and passed through filters to isolate the Raman signal from the intense elastic (Rayleigh) scattering. The resulting Raman spectrum shows peaks corresponding to specific vibrational modes within the molecules, producing a molecular fingerprint unique to each substance.

Raman spectrometry is widely used in fields such as chemistry, pharmaceuticals, materials science, geology, and for forensic analysis. Its advantages include minimal sample preparation, nondestructiveness, and the ability to analyze samples through transparent containers or in situ. Limitations include fluorescence interference and relatively weak Raman signals, which sometimes require sensitive detectors or advanced techniques to enhance signal strength.

Recent advancements have led to portable Raman spectrometers, enabling field analysis and real-time diagnostics. These instruments contribute significantly to quality control, environmental monitoring, and research applications, making Raman spectroscopy a versatile and valuable analytical tool.