The Versatility of Portable Raman in Process Development

The following is a summary of selected articles published recently in Spectroscopy on the subject of handheld, portable, and wearable spectrometers representing a variety of analytical techniques and applications. Here we take a closer look at the ever shrinking world of spectroscopy devices and how they are used. As spectrometers progress from bulky lab instruments to compact, portable, and even wearable devices, the future of spectroscopy is transforming dramatically. These advancements enable real-time, on-site analysis across diverse industries, from healthcare to environmental monitoring. This summary article explores cutting-edge developments in miniaturized spectrometers and their expanding range of practical applications.

Metrohm has launched a website that details the use of portable Raman spectroscopy instrumentation to detect fentanyl, and other manufacturers are joining the battle too.

Scientists from Zhenjiang, China recently tested different analysis methods of using portable near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy to detect Bombyx mori nuclear polyhedrosis virus within silkworms.

Exploring the transformative capabilities of handheld Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrometers, Luis Rodriguez-Saona of The Ohio State University emphasizes their pivotal role in ensuring food integrity and safety across the entire supply chain.

There is a growing desire among spectroscopists for having instruments small enough to be taken to the sample, as opposed to bringing the sample to the instrument. The result is that Raman spectrometers are becoming more miniaturized. Because these instruments come at a lower cost and offer distinct advantages over traditional spectrometers, the expectation is that a rapid expansion of when these instruments are applied will come forthwith. We offer a preview of how future miniaturized Raman spectrometers might look.

This article provides a convenient summary of portable and handheld spectroscopy techniques, outlining the most prominent types of compact instruments for both atomic and molecular spectroscopy.