Raman Spectroscopy Uses

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Current and Expanding Uses for Raman Spectroscopy

The application of Raman spectroscopy is used in many aspects of earth and planetary science. Raman is useful because it can provide information about molecular vibrations within materials. Therefore, the information it provides is molecule specific, is capable of structural discernment, and offers relatively simple spectral fingerprints.

Specific areas of use in earth and planetary sciences include high pressure mineralogy, shock metamorphism, graphitization of carbonaceous matter in metamorphic rocks, fluid inclusions, biogenic minerals, biomolecules, and pigments in ancient paintings, manuscripts, and other artifacts. Further applications and instrumentation suited for planetary science are in development. Future instrumentation will be lander/rover oriented and be able to make analyses that unambiguously identifies planetary surface materials that are organic or inorganic and provide structrual and elemental information.

For more information on the Raman Spectroscopy Laboratory at HIGP contact Dr. Shiv Sharma.
Webpage maintained by Josh Cahill.