Thorlabs Adds Portable Coded-Aperture Raman Spectrometer To Its Spectroscopy Portfolio

Thorlabs announced today that it has expanded its spectroscopy product offering with the release of two variants of Portable Coded-Aperture Raman Spectrometers (Item #’s RASP1 and RASP2) ideal for detecting low-intensity Raman signals. With the ability to measure Raman spectra in the fingerprint (500 − 1800 cm^-1; RASP1 and RASP2) and high frequency regions (2600 − 3700 cm^-1; RASP2 only), these devices allow for the analysis of the chemical composition of both solid and liquid samples. RASP1 comes with an integrated 785 nm excitation laser, whereas RASP2 contains a 785 nm laser as well as a 680 nm laser. Safety interlocks prevent exposure to the internal Class 4 laser(s), lowering the system's laser classification to Class 1.

Based upon the same patented Coded-Aperture technology integrated into the previously released Modular Raman Spectroscopy Kits [Item # RSB1(/M)], these new spectrometers overcome the conventional single slit spectrometer tradeoff between desired spectral resolution and achievable light throughput. With a Coded-Aperture Raman Spectrometer, sample excitation is possible with an unfocused ∅2.0 mm laser beam, thereby enabling a large field of view sampling area (ideal for inhomogeneous samples) and low laser power density at the sample (reducing the chance for laser-induced damage).

These benchtop spectrometers are easy to use with ThorRaman, a new software interface that is straightforward, intuitive, and responsive, revealing all functions in one or two clicks. The spectrometers also feature a built-in Neon spectral lamp and come with a polystyrene reference chip that allows for automated self-calibration. An accessory kit (Item # RASPA1) for optimal sample positioning is available separately.

Sample composition analysis is performed automatically against up to four substances from a reference library. An example substance library of common chemicals is included with the software, and custom libraries can easily be built using spectra acquired by the user. Click here(https://www.thorlabs.com/newgrouppage9.cfm?objectgroup_id=15634&PR) to learn more about the systems.