The Role of Raman Spectroscopy in Analytical Sciences

Dear Colleagues, 

Raman spectroscopy (RS) is a vibrational spectroscopy technique delivering the specific molecular fingerprint of various samples based on their interaction with light (inelastic scattering), in a non-destructive and label-free manner. Raman spectral signatures allow for the specific identification of molecules and thus encompass information about the chemical composition of the sample, in terms of major species and sometimes of impurities or contaminants. As a result, a Raman spectrum is considered a unique profile with signal intensity directly proportional to concentration. Raman spectroscopy is also suited to the study of molecular conformations and interactions. Less numerous than in IR spectra due to different selection rules, Raman bands enable better resolution of mixed signals, and are useful for multiplex detection as well as the analysis of complex samples. In addition to a semi-quantitative analysis of complex samples where the relative band intensities are connected to the relative content of the species, determination of their absolute concentrations becomes possible with the advent of multivariate analysis.

Developments in multivariate analysis as well as the progress in Raman instrumentation have opened a new era with very promising perspectives for RS in the analytical sciences. The role of RS has strengthened over the last several decades and it is on the verge of becoming an established tool for routine analysis in research facilities, as well as in industry for applications such as quality control or PAT (Process Analytical Technology). The field has significantly broadened in recent years with an enriched spectrum of devices, starting from portable and handheld Raman instruments and going to PAT-dedicated set-ups and reaching powerful imaging tools such as coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (CARS) and stimulated Raman scattering (SRS).

The current Special Issue aims to gather a collection of papers illustrating current analytical applications and challenges of Raman spectroscopy, both the conventional technology and its variants, based either on nanotechnology (e.g., surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) or tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS)) or on non-linear microscopy (e.g., CARS and SRS). A broad range of fields (biomedical, chemistry, pharmaceutics, cosmetics, food industry, etc.) are expected to be represented.

Prof. Dr. Igor Chourpa
Dr. Franck Bonnier
Guest Editors

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