Biological and pharmaceutical samples are often complex, and therefore also require a comprehensive approach during analysis. Moreover, in the case of measurement in the pharmaceutical industry, a single error can have fatal consequences, so it is absolutely essential to have research and production under control at all points of the process, both qualitatively and quantitatively.
In addition to infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy is another of the traditionally used methods of non-destructive and contactless analysis. Even though it is as well a method of molecular spectroscopy, unlike FT-IR, it can also be used to analyze samples containing larger amounts of water. In addition, not only the surface of the sample is analyzed, but also its internal volume (approximately a few millimeters in depth). This also brings a very practical possibility to measure through various packages (plastic, glass, transparent and opaque), which allows the measurement e.g. in in warehouses where this would not otherwise be possible due to the need to comply with safety protocols.
Handheld Raman spectrometers are therefore suitable for the first line measurement, which can be purchased with a wide range of practical measuring accessories (adapters for measuring in bottles, vials, immersion probes) as well as with different wavelengths of excitation lasers, thanks to which you can easily avoid fluorescence problems. However, when the need for more detailed analysis arises, it is better to use a more sophisticated spectrometer: the Nicolet DXR3 SmartRaman.
Equipped with a patented automatic alignment system, smart background measurement, interchangeable lasers, grids and filters and a range of intelligent measuring accessories, it is an excellent tool that offers endless possibilities for analyzing your samples. You can measure an inexhaustible amount of their physical and chemical properties: viscosity, pH, chemical composition, representation of individual functional groups (e.g. amide I, II and III) or polymorphs of the test substance or changes in protein conformation.
To learn more about the possibilities of Raman spectroscopy in the pharmaceutical industry, accept our invitation to the Applications of Raman Spectroscopy in Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing webinar, which will take place on September 6, 2021 at 3:30 p.m.