Raman Applications That Are Driving a Rapidly Expanding Market Mar 1, 2008 By: Fran Adar

Chemical analysts who use spectroscopy to extract molecular information from samples have been following the developments in Raman instrumentation. Vibrational spectroscopy provides detailed molecular information, but Fourier-transform IR has been much easier to use than Raman. Now that Raman equipment is smaller, cheaper, faster, and easier, analysts are interested. Columnist Fran Adar will discuss why.

Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Feb 1, 2008 By: Fran Adar

Columnist Fran Adar discusses surfaced-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). The phenomenon is described and the enhancement factors that make it so attractive for analytical purposes are pointed out. In particular, she reviews the state-of-the-art from the point of view of the instrumentation and the robustness of the measurements.

Raman Micro Imaging - What Was a Concept in 1975 Is Now a Reality Nov 1, 2007 By: Fran Adar

Raman microscopy was developed as a tool for microanalysis complementary to the electron microscope, which enabled identification of the elements in a microspot. The first realization for Raman imaging was implemented using a nonconfocal optical method. Subsequently, a confocal scheme was developed, which provided better contrast in the Raman image. A number of successful examples from pathology, pharmaceutical analysis, and geology will be shown.

Raman Spectroscopy - An Old Technology That Has Come of Age Oct 1, 2007 By: Fran Adar

Columnist Fran Adar discusses the evolution of Raman spectroscopy instrumentation and new applications for this more sensitive, easy-to-use technology.

SIFT-MS: Gas-Phase Chemistry - MS with a Difference Mar 1, 2007 By: Rebecca Bain

Guest author Rebecca Bain of SYFT Technologies discusses a new technique for VOC analysis. SIFT-MS can be used successfully in a wide variety of applications, including medical research, shipping container air analysis, laboratory analysis, and air-quality monitoring.

Think Small Revisited: Handheld Spectroscopy Guest author John Coates describes handheld measurements performed using a palm-sized device that can be used either as an open-ended spectrometer or as a dedicated analyzer. The spectral sensor operates in the visible spectral region from 400 nm to 700 nm. Feb 1, 2007 By: John Coates

Guest author John Coates describes handheld measurements performed using a palm-sized device that can be used either as an open-ended spectrometer or as a dedicated analyzer.

An Ode to Traceability and Calibration Interval Nov 1, 2006 By: Emil W. Ciurczak

November 2006. Guest author Art Springsteen discusses standards for reflection measurements and the issues surrounding this topic.

Think Small: Low-Cost Optical Spectral Measurements for Chemical Sensing Oct 1, 2006 By: John Coates

October 2006. Guest author John Coates discusses a miniature spectral measurement system that operates as a full spectrum analyzer, a colorimeter, or a multichannel photometer in the form of a spectral engine.

Pittcon 2006 New Products Review May 1, 2006 By: Emil W. Ciurczak

Emil Ciurczak presents his review of the newest and most interesting products in the field of spectroscopy at the 2006 Pittcon Conference.