On September 18th, Rebekah Byrne, Scientist I and David Exline, Senior V.P. at Gateway Analytical hosted a webinar designed for professionals (e.g. Quality Control, Industrial Engineers) involved in the production and development of various materials, ranging from adhesives and polymers to plastics and glass. During this webinar, our presenters provided an overview of RCI and the type of data that can be generated using this technique. They discussed how this technique is currently being utilized in areas such as pharmaceuticals and provided details on how RCI can be beneficial for analyzing other types of materials, such as adhesives, polymers and coatings. They also discussed how analysis of materials using RCI can improve product development and failure analysis.
For more details on the webinar, you can use the links below.
- View the webinar
- Download the presentation slides
We received a number of questions from attendees during the Q&A segment, and you can find those questions and answers below. If you have any questions about this or any other topic, please contact us.
- What is the smallest sample that can be visualized using Raman Chemical Imaging?
RCI can go down to about 1µm sample size, and theoretically can resolve 500nm. - What do you find to be the biggest difference between Raman and FTIR?
The accessibility of reference spectra within databases. FTIR databases are extensive; Raman databases, while growing, are not nearly as expansive. - What are the most common types analyzed with this method?
While RCI can be used on various sample types, common types of samples include suspensions, tablets and polymers. - Can you obtain quantitative analysis in such cases where you have a combination of colors?
This depends largely on sample type; as mentioned, each sample is examined on a case by case basis. We have had success in obtaining quantitative information for samples in the past. - How do you view the pros and cons of Raman imaging and Raman mapping?
Raman imaging does not provide a full spectral range, while mapping does. However, imaging can provide detailed information on individual components that mapping may not be capable of providing.