Forensic Sciences/Raman Spectroscopy

Techniques

Raman Spectroscopy and Microspectroscopy

Sampling Ease and Information-Rich Data
A vibrational spectroscopy complementary to FT-IR, Raman is rapidly becoming a technique of choice in analytical labs where high-throughput and ease of use are at a premium. Raman combines micro and macro sampling capabilites to yield molecular identification of most compounds.

Raman offers several benefits to today's crime lab:

• Minimal or no sample preparation. Collect spectra through evidence bags and glass vials, eliminating cross-contamination. This means more samples through your lab each day, and cleaner evidence.
  
  
• Automated sample handing. Automatically process sample batches from multi-well plates. Automated library searching provides unattended sample identification.
  

Thermo Fisher Scientific Raman offers even more:

• Easy to use instrumentation. We built the expertise into the instrument so that you can be an expert in your field. Auto-exposure, smart background, auto-calibration and alignment features mean no fuss on your part. Run your samples and collect your data. We take care of the details.
  
• Automated record collection. Array Automation software records spectral data and video images in a fully automated fashion and facilitates automated sample classication and identifcation.
  
  
• One software platform. Thermo Fisher Scientific provides the same software platform from both its FT-IR and Raman instruments. No added learning curves or new procedures to learn.
  
  
• Validation. Thermo Fisher Scientific's validation package provides an exta level of confidence in data accuracy to assure evidence integrity.

Further Reading: Raman Microanalysis in the Forensic Laboratory - Identification and Characterization of Suspect Solids, Liquids, and Powders (157 kb PDF)

Thermo Fisher Scientific Raman Products for Forensic Sciences

Almega XR Dispersive Raman Spectrometer
The Nicolet Almega XR spectrometer provides exceptional sensitivity, spatial resolution and experimental flexibility in a fully automated, Class I laser safe package. The system features multiple laser wavelength options for high resolution confocal Raman microscopy and a fully integrated, full-sized Raman sample compartment. All experimental and parameter set-up options are computer controlled for increased ease of use, reliability and speed.

NXR FT-Raman Module
Adds the power, simplicity and complementarity of near IR Raman spectroscopy to the Nicolet FT-IR series spectrometer. The NXR Module is also compatible with earlier Thermo Fisher Scientific FT-IR instruments, including the Nexus and Magna spectrometers. 


NXR 9610 FT-Raman Spectrometer  This dedicated FT-Raman system includes the same optical components on the same FT-Raman platform as our dedicated research-grade FT-Raman spectrometer. Specialized detector and laser options create a robust, reliable, and economical FT-Raman spectrometer for less demanding applications.

MicroStage FT-Raman Microscope
With free path optics for sensitive, high throughput data collection, the FT-Raman MicroStage delivers excellent spatial resolution for microscopic analysis of materials such as fibers, crystals, polymorphs and more. Based on Thermo Fisher Scientific’s 2002 R&D 100 award winning ViewStage, the MicroStage accommodates standard 96-well and 384-well plates for rapid and routine sample screening.

Spectral Libaries
Critical to the identification of unknowns or verification of suspected substances, FT-IR spectral libraries from Thermo Fisher Scientific provide an extensive collection of materials relevant to forensic sciences.

Toronto Forensic Library  - Contains FT-IR spectra of illegal and legal drugs, drug precursors, reagents used to prepare them and other substances encountered in forensic analysis. 3,549 spectra included. View list (pdf).

Common Materials and White Powders Spectral Library - Contains spectra of commonly found commercial products and white powders, such as baking soda, flour, and Vitamin C.

Synthetic Fibers by Microscope FT-IR Spectral Library - Contains FT-IR microscope transmission spectra of synthetic fibers from the Collaborative Testing Services Reference Collection of Synthetic Fibers. View list (pdf).