Evading the Illusions: Identification of False Peaks in Micro‐Raman Spectroscopy and Guidelines for Scientific Best Practice

Abstract

Micro‐Raman spectroscopy is an important analytical tool in a large variety of science disciplines. The technique is suitable for both identification of chemical bonds and studying more detailed phenomena like molecular interactions, material strain, crystallinity, defects, and bond formations. Raman scattering has one major weakness however: it is a very low probability process. The weak signals require very sensitive detection systems, which leads to a high probability of picking up signals from origins other than the sample. This complicates the analysis of the results and increases the risk of misinterpreting data. This work provides an overview of the sources of spurious signals occurring in Raman spectra, including photoluminescence, cosmic rays, stray light, artefacts caused by spectrometer components, and signals from other compounds in or surrounding the sample. The origins of these false Raman peaks are explained and means to identify and counteract them are provided.

Iron in the Presence of Iridium for Oxygen-Evolution Reaction under Alkaline Conditions

“…These spectral changes are associated with the transformation of Fe 3 O 4 into γ-Fe 2 O 3 , as reported in various studies (Figures e and S18). − This transformation is further supported by the structural similarities between Fe 3 O 4 and γ-Fe 2 O 3 .…”

“…Chronoamperometry shows results similar to those of CVs (Figure d). The activity of Fe on the electrode surface depends on at least two factors . First, the electron donation from μ–O groups attached to metal ions stabilizes Fe and related high-valent species (activity effect).…”

Understanding the Mechanics of the Temporomandibular Joint Osteochondral Interface from Micro- and Nanoscopic Perspectives

“…22−24 Since different molecules of substances have specific vibration and rotation energy levels, spectral peaks appear at specific positions on the spectrum, and the intensity of spectral peaks reflects the relative content of the substance. 25 As suggested by the Raman spectral results in regions i, ii, and iii, the main peak of PO 4 3− ν1 symmetric stretching at 960 cm −1 and the weak peak of CO 3 2− ν1 in-plane vibration at 1071 cm −1 indicate that the inorganic substance present in the osteochondral interface is carbonate-substituted HAP. 26 The positions and shapes of the peaks of PO 4 3− and CO 3 2− at 960 and 1071 cm −1 reveal the crystallinity, relative amount, and ion substitution of HAP (Figure 2A).…”

“…Raman spectroscopy is a noninvasive spectroscopic analysis technique using the inelastic scattering phenomenon caused by molecular vibrations in tissues. − Since different molecules of substances have specific vibration and rotation energy levels, spectral peaks appear at specific positions on the spectrum, and the intensity of spectral peaks reflects the relative content of the substance . As suggested by the Raman spectral results in regions i, ii, and iii, the main peak of PO 4 3– ν1 symmetric stretching at 960 cm –1 and the weak peak of CO 3 2– ν1 in-plane vibration at 1071 cm –1 indicate that the inorganic substance present in the osteochondral interface is carbonate-substituted HAP .…”

Unravelling air/moisture stability of cathode materials in sodium ion batteries: characterization, rational design, and perspectives

“…This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2024 integrated with other microscopy techniques employing microsized lasers. [74][75][76] SEM-Raman analysis allows for the acquisition of high-resolution morphology-correlated Raman spectra.…”