Spectroscopy-09-01-2007

While Fourier transform–infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy is commonly thought of as a laboratory analytical technique for which annual demand tops $200 million worldwide, it is also becoming an important technique in the post-9/11 era of heightened security measures. FT-IR has several advantages over dispersive infrared that make it highly advantageous for most security applications. There are a fair number of application areas for FT-IR within the security instrumentation market.

A novel method of transition metal (TM) (Cr, Co, and Fe)-doped nanocrystals fabrication based upon laser ablation was demonstrated. For the first time, mid-IR luminescence from TM:II-VI nanocrystals was reported.

Diamonds are by far the world's most popular gemstone. Because of this popularity and the high prices of quality gemstones, there is a large market for cheaper counterfeit stones that resemble diamonds. Detecting these counterfeit stones can be a significant problem for diamond buyers when the stones are represented as the genuine article by unscrupulous sellers. Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy can be a useful tool for buyers and sellers to determine authenticity.

In this month's installment, columnists Howard Mark and Jerome Workman, Jr. present the derivation of the principal component algorithm using elementary algebra.

Spectroscopy previews the 34th Annual Meeting of the FACSS, which will be held in Memphis, Tennessee.

Columnist David Ball discusses the search for light sources that are more energy efficient than incandescent light bulbs. In particular, he focuses on light-emitting diodes.

Featured products from the spectroscopy marketplace.