Metrohm Raman Probes

Importance of the Topic

Raman spectroscopy is a powerful tool for non-destructive molecular identification and structural analysis. Deploying fiber-optic probes with portable Raman spectrometers makes it possible to perform real-time measurements directly in industrial processes, harsh environments, or field settings. This capability supports rapid decision-making in chemical manufacturing, quality assurance, materials research, and safety monitoring.

Objectives and Study Overview

This document presents an overview of B&W Tek’s Raman probe portfolio designed for portable spectrometer platforms. It aims to summarize probe configurations, shaft materials, performance specifications, and accessory options. The goal is to guide end users in selecting the most suitable probe for their application, balancing factors such as temperature and pressure tolerance, sample type, working distance, and chemical compatibility.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The probe lineup includes:

• Industrial immersion probes with stainless steel or Hastelloy C-276 shafts, sapphire ball lenses, and epoxy or gold sealing, rated up to 300 °C and 6000 psi.
• Standard replaceable aluminum and stainless steel shafts for BAC100B and BAC102 series, operable up to 80 °C for non-immersive use, with fused silica or sapphire windows.
• High-pressure, high-temperature immersion shafts (up to 250 °C and 6000 psi) in various shaft lengths (3” to 11”) and diameters (0.472” to 0.5”).
• Large area probes for i-Raman Prime and PTRam systems, offering a 4 mm diameter measurement spot, see-through identification capability, Rayleigh rejection >OD6, and excitation at 785 nm or 1064 nm.
• Zoom lens accessories (RTS200/201/202 series) providing stand-off measurement from 20 mm up to 6 m, with working ranges for VIS-NIR and NIR excitations and apertures from 23 mm to 70 mm.

Main Results and Discussion

The analysis of probe specifications highlights:

• Pressure and Temperature Tolerance: Hastelloy shafts operate up to 300 °C and 6000 psi; stainless steel shafts up to 200 °C and 6000 psi.
• Window Materials: Sapphire and fused silica windows ensure chemical resistance and optical clarity across common Raman excitation wavelengths (532 nm, 785 nm, 1064 nm).
• Modularity: User-replaceable shafts and interchangeable lenses allow adaptation to diverse environments, from slurry and powder immersion to non-contact measurements.
• Large Area and See-Through Probes: Enhanced bulk sampling and the ability to probe through opaque packaging expand application scope in pharmaceuticals and food inspection.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Key advantages include:

• In-situ Process Monitoring: Direct insertion into reactors, pipelines, or extruders under high pressure and temperature.
• Quality Control: On-line verification of material composition in manufacturing lines and incoming raw materials.
• Field Deployment: Portable setups for environmental sampling, forensic analysis, and field research.
• Non-Contact Analysis: Stand-off and see-through measurements for sensitive or hazardous samples without direct contact.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Emerging directions for Raman probe technology include:

• Integration with AI-driven data analysis for automated spectral interpretation and anomaly detection.
• Miniaturized and ruggedized probe heads for expanded deployment in confined or remote locations.
• Advanced materials for enhanced chemical compatibility, extended temperature ranges, and improved optical throughput.
• Multiplexed probe arrays for simultaneous multi-point measurement and imaging applications.
• Seamless connectivity to process control systems for real-time feedback loops in continuous manufacturing.

Conclusion

B&W Tek’s diverse Raman probe offerings provide robust, modular solutions for a wide range of analytical challenges. By tailoring shaft materials, window types, and accessory lenses, users can achieve reliable, high-quality spectra in demanding environments—from high-pressure reactors to stand-off inspections. This flexibility supports improved process control, quality assurance, and field analysis across multiple industries.

References

No literature references were provided in the original document.