Raman Microspectroscopy for Chemical and Pharmaceutical Analysis

Raman spectroscopy is an analysis technique that uses light. Raman signals can be recorded from many types of materials and are used as fingerprint to distinguish them accurately. This broad application makes Raman a tool with high potential. However, challenges including sensitivity, specificity and selectivity remain. As such, specialized Raman spectroscopy equipment is built for each application. Apparatus construction is discussed in the present contribution, as well as theory and methods of signal acquisition and enhancement. Raman spectrometers built specifically for each purpose are used for several analytical problems. Flow profiles are characterized. Electrochemical conversions on an electrode are investigated. Cells are imaged in a label-free manner. Detection systems are compared. In vitro endothelial cells are investigated in a label free manner, using gold pyrazine carbonitrile interactions. And finally, an electrochemical flow microreactor was developed and characterized.