B&W Tek Raman Solution Suite for Forensics Applications

Importance of the topic

The rapid and reliable identification of forensic substances is critical for law enforcement, crime scene investigation, and laboratory analysis. Raman spectroscopy offers a non-destructive, highly specific approach that can be deployed both in the field and in controlled laboratory settings, streamlining workflows and reducing exposure risks.

Goals and overview of the article

This application note presents a comprehensive Raman spectroscopy solution suite designed for forensic applications. It describes the principles of Raman analysis, introduces two portable instruments optimized for field and laboratory use, and demonstrates their effectiveness in identifying narcotics, explosives, precursors, and other forensic materials.

Methodology and used instrumentation

This suite employs vibrational spectroscopy to detect molecular fingerprints. Key components include:

• TacticID Handheld Raman System (785 nm excitation) for rapid bulk screening of common forensic materials without sample preparation.
• i-Raman EX Portable Raman System (1064 nm excitation) with InGaAs detector and deep TE cooling for high-fluorescence or dark samples.
• TacPac™ SERS adaptor for surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy to detect trace levels of controlled substances or active pharmaceutical ingredients.
• Fiber-optic coupling and optional Raman video microscope for micro-sampling and precise targeting of sample regions.

Main results and discussion

Bench and field tests confirm that the TacticID system delivers definitive identifications within seconds, even through plastic packaging, with automated mixture analysis for complex samples. The 1064 nm excitation of the i-Raman EX overcomes fluorescence interference, enabling clear heroin detection and analysis of dark or colored specimens. The SERS approach dramatically improves sensitivity for low-concentration analytes, supporting counterfeit detection and trace evidence analysis. The fiber-optic and microscope accessories further extend capabilities to slurries and microscopic forensic targets.

Benefits and practical applications

Raman solutions provide:

• Non-destructive testing that preserves evidence integrity.
• On-site screening to accelerate case processing.
• Automated data logging with time-date stamping and chain-of-custody support.
• High specificity and low false alarm rates for narcotics, explosives, chemical precursors, and bio-samples.
• Adaptable workflows for both bulk and trace analysis via SERS.

Future trends and possibilities for use

Emerging advances include handheld STRaman™ technology for thermally sensitive materials, expanded spectral libraries powered by machine learning, enhanced SERS substrates for ultra-trace detection, and integrated portable platforms combining Raman with complementary techniques (e.g., infrared or mass spectrometry) for multi-modal forensic analysis.

Conclusion

B&W Tek’s Raman forensic suite delivers laboratory-proven identification capability in lightweight, field-portable instruments. By leveraging 785 nm and 1064 nm excitation, along with SERS and microscope accessories, users achieve rapid, reliable, and non-destructive analysis of a broad range of forensic samples. These solutions enhance productivity, safety, and evidentiary integrity in both field and laboratory environments.

Reference

1. B&W Tek. Raman spectroscopy Category A method, SWGDRUG Version 7.1, 2016.
2. B&W Tek. TacticID Handheld Raman System Application Note, 2018.
3. B&W Tek. i-Raman EX Portable Raman System Datasheet, 2018.