ANALYSIS OF DISCRETE FINE PARTICLES BY RAMAN-SPECTROSCOPY

A conventional laser Raman spectrometer has been modified and used to obtain useful Raman spectra from discrete solid particles as small as 0. 7 mu m in linear dimensions. Spectra obtained from single, micrometer-sized particles of several inorganic and organic compounds are reported. Simplified calculations are discussed which provide an estimate of detectability levels and other problems associated with these measurements. Certain parameters that must be considered in the design of an instrument especially intended for use in the chemical characterization of single fine particles are reviewed in the light of this work.