DIY Raman Spectroscopy Systems

Raman spectroscopy is a robust analytical technique used in quality control, industrial process monitoring, research and development, and routine identification of hazardous compounds, pharmaceuticals, and illegal narcotics.

These do-it-yourself kits offer the freedom to set up a Raman system with several choices for every part, allowing optimization for particular uses.

Three main parts make up the Raman analyzer:

  1. Laser
  2. Detector (spectrometer)
  3. Sample interface (probe)

Getting Started

These DIY Raman systems come in three common wavelengths, with bespoke wavelengths available upon request.

532 nm

Why Choose 532?

  • Enhanced Raman signals
  • Broader Raman spectral range

The 532-nanometer laser is ideal for inorganic materials because it provides the most excitation energy to the sample, increasing fluorescence.

Graph showing Raman shift (in cm-1) against relative intensity.

Image Credit: B&W Tek

785 nm

Why Choose 785?

  • Reduced fluorescence
  • High spectral resolution

The most commonly used wavelength for dispersive Raman measurements is a 785-nanometer laser because it provides an efficient balance between signal intensity, reduced fluorescence, and spectral range.

Graph showing wavenumbers of samples.

Image Credit: B&W Tek

1064 nm

Why Choose 1064?

  • Minimal fluorescence
  • Suitable for analyzing the widest range of samples

Darker illicit drug samples, botanicals, and highly colored substances like paints and inks are best analyzed with a 1064 nm laser since these materials typically exhibit intense fluorescence when excited at 532 nm or 785 nm.

Graph showing Raman shift (cm-1) against arbitrary intensity units when using 785 and 1064 nm lasers.

Image Credit: B&W Tek

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