Confocal Raman microscopy (CRM) enables analysts to obtain a highly magnified view of a sample, which includes information about depth and structures. This method is ideal for in-depth Raman analysis and provides the highest spatial resolution of any other microscopy technique. This blog post will provide an overview of confocal Raman systems and how choosing one could benefit various applications.
What is Confocal Raman Microscopy?
Confocal Raman microscopy was invented to combat out-of-focus light and minimize scattered light causing analysis issues with conventional microscopy. These problems were solved using a confocal pinhole, reducing Raman scatter and improving spatial resolution. It combines a confocal optical microscope and Raman spectroscopy, which results in high-resolution imaging to provide a range of insights about a sample.
What are the Benefits of a Confocal Raman System?
Using confocal Raman microscopy provides numerous benefits. Firstly, it requires minimal sample preparation and is a non-destructive method of analysis. Secondly, it can be used to determine a molecule’s vibrational energies, which will help determine if a specific wavelength is absorbed2. Other benefits include the following:
- Can be combined with other microspectrometers to enhance applications
- Chemical, physical and structural information can be obtained
- Clear images
- Depth of field can be controlled
- Easily customized
- High spatial resolution
- Raman spectral mapping is possible
- Used in a range of applications
Applications of a Confocal Raman System?
A confocal Raman system can be used in a wide range of industries to acquire Raman microspectra easily. They can be used for advanced research, failure analysis, and applications such as analyzing liquids and solids for contamination analysis and quality control. Many areas benefit from using confocal Raman microscopy, and some of those include:
- Biology: Live cell imaging and tissue analysis
- Geology: For analyzing chemical details, topography and structure of samples
- Pharmaceuticals: Chemical and contamination analysis
- Materials Science: Characterization of 2D materials
- Semiconductors: Measuring thin film thickness
CRAIC Tecnologies and Confocal Raman Systems
CRAIC Technologies manufactures a range of spectrometers for various industries and applications. Our Apollo M™ Raman microspectrometer was designed to easily and quickly acquire Raman microspectra and minimize the time spent operating the instrument, thus allowing you to focus on taking your sample measurements.
The Apollo M™ can be combined with various other CRAIC instruments to enhance your required applications. These include scanning, solid-state, and UV-VIS-NIR microspectrometers which provide flexibility and quickness in various experiments.
Aside from its ease of use and high performance, the Apollo M™ provides several benefits to its users that make Raman microspectroscopy easier and more efficient.
- Easy to maintain
- High sensitivity and speed
- Reliable
- Stand-alone or add to other CRAIC instruments
If you want more information about confocal Raman systems or any of the CRAIC Technologies services, please contact us today, and we’ll find you the right solution.