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Raman

What is Raman Spectroscopy?

Raman spectroscopy is a non-destructive analytical technique that measures molecular vibrational “fingerprints” generated when a laser interacts with a sample. The resulting Raman spectrum provides chemical identification and structural information for a wide range of materials.
Raman is especially powerful for identifying polymorphs, carbon materials, inorganic crystals, polymers, and pigments, and it can often analyze samples with minimal or no preparation.

What Raman Can Help You Solve

  • Material identification for unknown solids, powders, films, fibers, and particles

  • Polymorph / phase discrimination (e.g., different crystal forms of the same compound)

  • Carbon materials characterization (graphite/graphene/carbon black; D/G band analysis)

  • Contamination and foreign particle analysis (rapid screening and source clues)

  • Comparative analysis (lot-to-lot, supplier-to-supplier, before/after processing)

  • Failure analysis support (surface residues, corrosion/oxidation products, deposits)

Typical Applications

  • Polymers & plastics: resin confirmation, additives/pigments screening, multilayer film checks

  • Semiconductor & electronics: particles on wafers, residues on components, solder mask/coatings

  • Batteries & energy materials: cathode/anode materials, conductive carbon, degradation byproducts

  • Pharmaceuticals & chemicals: polymorph identification, raw material verification

  • Geology & minerals: mineral/phase identification

  • Coatings, inks & pigments: pigment confirmation and comparative troubleshooting

Capabilities

Measurement Modes (as applicable)

  • Point analysis: fast identification at a specific location

  • Raman mapping (chemical imaging): distribution of components across an area

  • Depth profiling (optional): for transparent or layered structures (project-dependent)

  • Microscale analysis: micro-particles and small features using microscope-coupled Raman

What You Can Get

  • Qualitative identification (spectral matching + expert interpretation)

  • Phase/polymorph confirmation

  • Carbon structure indicators (e.g., relative band features for disorder/graphitization)

  • Comparative conclusions supported by spectral overlays and key peak assignment

Sample Requirements

  • Sample types: solids, powders, films, fibers, tablets, coatings, residues, particles

  • Typical amount: from single particles to bulk; minimal material is often sufficient

  • Preferred condition: clean, dry, and clearly labeled; avoid mixing samples in one container

  • If possible, provide: reference/control sample for direct comparison

  • Notes: Some samples may show fluorescence that can interfere with Raman signals; we will optimize conditions or recommend complementary methods if needed.

Workflow

  • Goal definition (ID / comparison / mapping / particle analysis)

  • Method selection (laser wavelength, power, objective, acquisition settings)

  • Measurement (spot spectra and/or mapping)

  • Data processing (baseline handling, peak assignment, library matching, overlays)

  • Reporting (clear findings + supporting spectra + interpretation)

FAQs

Raman is generally non-destructive. For sensitive samples, we control laser power and exposure to minimize heating or damage.

Raman works best for Raman-active materials and is excellent for many organics and inorganics. Some samples fluoresce strongly, which can obscure Raman signals; in such cases we may adjust the laser wavelength or suggest FTIR/XPS/SEM-EDS as complementary options.

In many cases, yes—depending on container type, thickness, and fluorescence background. We can evaluate feasibility based on your sample and packaging.

Yes. Microscope-coupled Raman is well suited for foreign particle identification and small-area analysis.

Yes. Raman mapping can show spatial distribution of components, phases, or contaminants across a surface.

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