Abstract
The near-infrared Fourier transform (NIR FT) Raman technique permits the measurement of Raman spectra without interference by fluorescence. Absorption by molecules containing X-H bonds in the NIR range requires a 180° scattering geometry. In this way, Raman spectroscopy of samples on surfaces is possible, both the detecting of small spots and the mapping of the sample distribution over larger areas. The spatial resolution extends into the micrometer range. Mapping of the inorganic pigment distribution of an initial letter of a mediaeval manuscript is demonstrated. For time-resolved measurements, the step-scan technique, previously developed for infrared spectroscopy, may be used in NIR FT-Raman spectroscopy as well. It allows the study of photochemical and photophysical processes, the application of modulation techniques, and the investigation of “noisy” samples. Photo-isomerization of the dye merocyanine 540 has been observed with the step-scan technique upon periodic excitation with a flash lamp.
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