Infrared/Raman Microscope AIRsight (for Researchers)

Significance of the topic

The integration of infrared (IR) and Raman microscopy in a single platform delivers complementary molecular insights crucial for applications across materials science, environmental monitoring, pharmaceuticals and quality control. Combining both vibrational spectroscopic techniques at identical sample coordinates enhances qualitative accuracy and streamlines complex workflows in research and industrial laboratories.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note presents AIRsight, a hybrid IR/Raman microscope system designed to measure both infrared and Raman spectra from the same micro-area without sample repositioning. Key goals include improving analytical efficiency, simplifying measurement protocols via unified software control, and reducing instrument footprint by merging two measurement modalities into one device.

Instrumentation and Methodology

• Optical Platform: Shimadzu’s AIRsight microscope with wide-view and microscope cameras for field-of-view from 10×13 mm down to 7.5×10 μm using 50× and 100× objectives.
• IR Source: FTIR systems (IRTracer-100, IRXross, IRAffinity-1S) interfaced to the microscope.
• Raman Lasers: Dual-wavelength options at 532 nm for strong scattering and 785 nm for fluorescence suppression.
• Software: AMsolution Measurement and Analysis modules enabling seamless switching, spectrum overlay, spectral library creation, and depth profiling (Z-direction line and point mapping).
• Confocal Optics: Maintains spatial resolution and corrects focus shifts when changing objectives between IR and Raman modes.

Main Results and Discussion

Multiple case studies demonstrate the system’s versatility:

• Microplastics: Identification of polystyrene particles from 1 μm to 115 μm via combined IR and Raman spectra at identical coordinates.
• Pigments on Historical Artifacts: Trace-level analysis of BaSO₄ and Pb₃O₄ on wood, preserving precious samples.
• Multilayer Films: Infrared and Raman area mapping visualizes each layer’s chemical distribution in film cross-sections.
• Polymorphic Crystals: Raman spectra differentiate caffeine monohydrate and anhydrous forms by distinct peak positions.
• Li-Ion Battery Electrodes: Raman area maps reveal graphite distribution and structural defects in negative electrode materials.
• Diamond-Like Carbon Films: Analysis of I(D)/I(G) ratios and FWHM parameters evaluates crystallinity, defects and hydrogen content in DLC coatings.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The combined IR/Raman instrument offers:

• Enhanced Qualitative Accuracy: Dual-technique confirmation at the same site.
• Workflow Efficiency: Single-software control from imaging to spectral analysis.
• Space Savings: One compact system replaces separate IR and Raman microscopes.
• Broader Material Coverage: Simultaneous organic and inorganic characterization.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Emerging opportunities include automated high-throughput mapping, AI-driven spectral interpretation, in situ reaction monitoring, and integration with microfluidics for dynamic chemical imaging. Expanded laser wavelengths and detector technologies will further extend sensitivity to challenging samples such as deep-UV chromophores and strongly fluorescent materials.

Conclusion

AIRsight’s unified IR/Raman microscopy platform delivers comprehensive molecular data with improved analytical precision and workflow simplicity. By enabling matched-point measurements and leveraging advanced software controls, the system meets the evolving demands of research, QA/QC, and industrial analysis.

Reference

• Shimadzu Application News Nos. 01-00396, 01-00395, 01-00397.
• Shimadzu AIRsight™ Infrared/Raman Microscope Brochure, First Edition November 2022.