Infrared/Raman Microscope AIRsight

Significance of the Topic

Combining infrared and Raman microscopy enables comprehensive molecular characterization by acquiring complementary information from the same sample location. This integrated approach improves qualitative accuracy, reduces sample handling errors and supports a wide range of applications in research, quality control, environmental analysis and heritage conservation.

Aims and Study Overview

The AIRsight system is designed to seamlessly integrate FTIR and Raman microscopy into a single platform. Its objectives are to streamline workflows from sample observation through data analysis, minimize footprint, and allow users to easily switch between techniques while maintaining precise spatial alignment.

Methodology and Used Instrumentation

Optical Design and Detectors

• FTIR mode employs a proprietary T2SL detector (liquid-nitrogen cooled) with alternative room‐temperature DLATGS or Peltier-cooled MCT options for flexibility
• Raman mode offers 532 nm and 785 nm laser excitation and supports 50× and 100× objectives for high spatial resolution
• Confocal optical path correction ensures measurements occur at the same XY position across both techniques

Software and Modules

• AMsolution Measurement and Analysis control both IR and Raman workflows in a unified interface
• High-Speed Mapping Program accelerates area mapping by auto-optimizing scan counts based on sample presence
• Depth (Z-direction) mapping enables internal profiling of transparent or translucent materials
• Library Creation and Contactless Contaminant Recognition support custom spectral libraries and automated identification
• Particle Analysis Program calculates particle size, mass and volume metrics from chemical images
• Validation routines comply with Japanese, US, European and Chinese pharmacopoeia standards

Accessories

• ATR Objective Mirror with pressure sensor for thin or non-transparent samples
• Diamond Cell C II for compressing micro samples
• Membrane filter holder for consistent microplastic analyses

Main Results and Discussion

Key system features were demonstrated through representative applications:

• Contaminant analysis on pharmaceutical tablets: combined IR and Raman spectra identified mannitol and iron oxide in sub-100 µm adhesion areas
• Pigment identification on wood: detection of BaSO4 via IR and Pb3O4 via Raman from trace historical samples
• Microplastic characterization: IR and Raman spectra obtained from particles ranging from 1 µm to >100 µm confirmed polymer types
• DLC film evaluation: Raman I(D)/I(G) ratios and peak widths revealed crystallinity and hydrogen content variations across deposition gases
• Li-ion battery electrode mapping: Raman area mapping visualized graphite distribution in negative electrode materials
• Polymorphic crystal differentiation: Raman peaks distinguished caffeine monohydrate from anhydrous form
• Multilayer film cross-section mapping: IR identified phthalate esters, Raman mapped titanium oxide layers
• Automotive paint depth profiling: Raman depth scans revealed acrylic resin layers and degradation status without sectioning

Benefits and Practical Applications

The unified platform reduces analysis time by eliminating sample repositioning, conserves laboratory space and enhances data consistency. Researchers and quality analysts benefit from automated workflows, extensive spectral libraries and advanced mapping tools for diverse materials including polymers, pigments, biological tissues and environmental samples.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Advances in AI-driven spectral interpretation, IoT-enabled self-diagnostics and cloud-based data management will further streamline multi-modal microscopy. Emerging areas include in situ reaction monitoring, real-time process control, high-throughput contaminant screening and integration with other imaging modalities for multimodal analysis.

Conclusion

The AIRsight infrared/Raman microscope represents a versatile solution for detailed molecular analysis. Its ability to capture complementary IR and Raman information at micrometer resolution, combined with powerful software modules, supports a broad spectrum of analytical challenges and accelerates material identification, mapping and quality control.

References

• Application News No. 01-00394. Contaminant analysis on pharmaceutical tablet surfaces.
• Application News No. 01-00395. Pigment analysis on wood using IR and Raman microscopy.
• Application News No. 01-00396. Microplastic particle characterization with combined spectroscopy.
• Application News No. 01-00397. Diamond-like carbon film evaluation by Raman spectroscopy.
• Application News No. 01-00465. Multilayer film cross-section mapping with IR and Raman.
• Kataoka T, Iga Y, Baihaqi RA, et al. Geometric relationship between the projected surface area and mass of a plastic particle. Water Research. 2024;261:122061.