Agilent Resolve Raman

Importance of Topic

Through-barrier identification of hazardous materials, explosives, and illicit substances is critical for first responders, military, and law enforcement to assess threats without compromising container integrity. Handheld Raman spectroscopy with spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS) enables rapid, non-invasive analysis that enhances safety, preserves evidence, and accelerates decision-making in high-stakes environments.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note introduces the Agilent Resolve Raman system, the first handheld Raman instrument capable of true through-barrier identification of chemicals and mixtures. The study aims to demonstrate its performance across three operational modes—Through-Barrier, Surface Scan, and Vial Holder—covering a broad range of sealed, non-metallic barriers and sample matrices.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The Resolve system employs proprietary handheld spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS) technology with an 830 nm laser to detect and identify substances through opaque and colored barriers. It features:

• Through-Barrier mode for sealed plastics, glass, paper, fabrics, and sacks
• Surface Scan mode for direct line-of-sight analysis
• Vial Holder mode for rapid glass vial measurements

This approach eliminates sample preparation and consumables, delivering results in approximately one minute with minimal operator interaction.

Used Instrumentation

The Agilent Resolve Raman handheld analyzer includes:

• An 830 nm laser (max 475 mW) with adjustable power and scan delay
• A rugged IP67-rated enclosure tested for shock, drop, and vibration
• Large 12 cm display and oversized buttons optimized for gloved use
• Removable nose cone with built-in calibration check
• Li-ion batteries providing up to four hours of continuous operation

Main Results and Discussion

Testing across diverse non-metallic barriers confirmed the system's ability to identify explosives, narcotics, chemical warfare agents, and industrial toxins without opening packaging. Comparative data showed:

• Accurate substance identification through colored plastics and glass
• Preserved spectral integrity with minimal fluorescence interference
• Consistent one-minute analysis time across modes

The results underscore the system's versatility and reliability under field conditions, enabling safer and more informed responses.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The Resolve Raman system offers key advantages:

• Enhanced safety by maintaining sealed containers and reducing exposure risks
• Operational efficiency by eliminating sample handling and downtime
• Evidence preservation for forensic and crime scene integrity
• Flexible deployment in hazardous material teams, explosive ordnance disposal, customs screening, and law enforcement

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advancements in handheld Raman instrumentation may include broader spectral libraries, real-time data sharing through cloud-based platforms, and integration with centralized management software such as Agilent Resolve Command. Further miniaturization and improved signal processing algorithms could expand applications to pharmaceutical QA/QC and environmental monitoring.

Conclusion

The Agilent Resolve Raman system represents a significant step forward in portable chemical identification, combining true through-barrier capability with user-friendly design and rapid, accurate analysis. Its deployment enhances safety, preserves evidence, and supports critical decision-making across diverse operational scenarios.

References

Agilent Technologies, Inc. Application Note 5991-8867EN, April 2020.