Having expertise in analytical chemistry, optics, spectroscopy, data processing and engineering our group has been successful in addressing fundamental and practical challenges faced when applying Raman spectroscopy to various process applications. Our achievements include development of a robust Raman immersion probe (ballprobe) for reproducible quantitative measurements, a high sensitivity waveguide sampling method for liquid systems, a variety of fluorescence reduction protocols and data processing algorithms. We use Raman spectroscopy for a wide range of applications including monitoring of continuous flow and batch processes, microfluidics, fermentation, characterization of oil fractions and fuels, deep ocean analysis and many others. We work on improving performance of Raman spectroscopy with existing applications as well as extending applicability of Raman spectroscopy to other uses. Another research direction is combining Raman and LIBS measurement in a single setup for simultaneous characterization of atomic and molecular composition of various types of samples.
Many processes require rapid evaluation of material composition at the elemental scale. While Raman is useful for molecular identification, LIBS can improve the identification of elemental species in the samples. Our group is focused on increasing the reproducibility of LIBS analysis through novel optical sampling systems and immersion probe designs. Our applications are directed towards bulk liquid or underwater analyses and interrogation of samples from stand-off distances. We are furthering the application of LIBS to industrial processes and forensic analysis through direct partnerships with industry sponsors.
Raman spectroscopy is a well-established vibrational spectroscopy technique for determining both qualitative and quantitative molecular information from almost any type of sample (e.g. solid, liquid or gas). A Raman spectrum is obtained by exciting a sample with a laser and measuring the inelastic scattering of photons allowing for identification and quantification.
LIBS is an atomic emission spectroscopic technique whereby a high-power laser pulse is focused onto a sample to create a small plasma region. Atomic spectral lines collected from the plasma can be used to both identify and quantitate the elemental composition of the sample.
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