Automated, photon-counting Raman spectrometer

Abstract

Current research directed towards establishing the use of laser Raman spectroscopy as an effective means of making rapid determinations of isotope abundance ratios in at least nitrogen, carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen has necessitated the construction of a spectrometer of unique capabilities. The instrument, an automated, photon-counting Raman spectrometer contains as many state-of-the-art components as is feasible. The spectrometer is described along with the automatic data retrieval system, which offers the unique capability of unlimited integration time while running unattended. A concrete example of its performance, the resolution of the Q branch of 16O16O, is presented.