Topics Covered

• Brief introduction of Rama spectroscopy theory and instrumentation
• Starting up hardware (laser (532 nm with nominal power of 100mW and 633 nm with nominal power of 10mW), light, lens and software)
• Criteria of samples for Raman spectroscopy for both solid and liquid.
• Focusing Samples: It involves optical focusing of the sample using 10X, 50X and 100X. Focusing of sample is essential to get good results.
• Calibration: This is the first step for any measurement. Every time the software starts or the grating is changed, you need to do the calibration. Raman calibration has two steps:
  • Zero calibration at 0 cm^-1
  • Si-peak calibration at 520.7 cm^-1
• Data acquisition:
  • Real time data acquisition, average data collection and saturation of detectors
  • Which laser to use, selection of filters and gratings, exposure time, role of hole and silts of spectrometer.
  • Possible sample degradation by laser power and maximizing the signal
  • Multi-window vs single window data
  • Area average data collection using Duo-scan mirror in large areas
  • Introduction to data analysis tools available to the user so that interested persons can explore more for analysis.
  • Saving data files in different formats
  • Resetting instrument defaults and turning of the laser and light sources
  • Brief introduction to Raman Mapping and what is taught in advanced training
  • Measuring laser intensity

  We have a short SOP saved on the desktop on operation and each time user need to keep notes on the log book for the calibration. The computers are connected to internet and transferring data is strongly recommended after use.