Limiting Sample Damage In Laser Diagnostics

Tests conducted comparing the effect exposure of Paracetamol to a laser with oven heating a sample to a temperature above its melting point, 169 degrees Celsius showed similarities. This implies that the primary cause of sample damage during Raman spectroscopy is heating. It was found that inserting a piece of glass between the sample and the microscope lens dramatically reduced the ability of the laser to damage samples. Computer models indicate that rotating a sample at 8 rotations per minute could be an effective method of limiting sample damage, and is a potential alternative to active cooling if this becomes financially and logistically viable in industry. Active sample cooling was investigated, but results proved inconclusive. This is a key area for any future research on the topic.