Spectroscopy refers to the study and measurement of electromagnetic radiation and its interaction with matter. When radiation of a specific wavelength interacts with molecules, atoms, or materials, unique patterns are produced due to changes in the vibrational, rotational, or electronic energy of the substance. These patterns, known as spectra, can provide detailed information about the composition, structure, and quantity of components present. Different types of spectroscopy used in process analysis include infrared, Raman, NMR, fluorescence, ultraviolet-visible, and more.
Infrared Spectroscopy
Infrared spectroscopy is one of the most widely used techniques in Process Spectroscopy due to its ability to identify functional groups based on vibrational information. Infrared light within the mid-infrared region interacts with molecular bonds, causing changes in vibrational energy levels that produce characteristic absorption bands. For process analysis, infrared spectroscopy can monitor molecular changes, reaction progress, composition variation, and other characteristics in near real-time. Key components are analyzed for factors like purity, concentration, and reaction completeness.
Raman Spectroscopy
Raman spectroscopy also provides vibrational information through light scattering. Unlike infrared which observes absorption bands, Raman spectroscopy detects inelastic light scattering where photons transfer energy to or from molecular vibrations. This produces unique spectral fingerprints based on molecular structure. Raman spectroscopy is highly advantageous for process analysis due to its non-destructive nature, limited or no sample preparation required, and ability to analyze through glass, water, and production vessel walls without interference. It is commonly used to monitor crystallization, blending, polymerization and other unit operations.
Process Applications
Real-time process analysis has many benefits for improving process monitoring, control, quality, and efficiency. Applications of process spectroscopy include monitoring chemical reactions, blending processes, evaporation and drying kinetics, crystallization and polymorph screening, and more. Continuous monitoring of factors like composition variation, concentration profiles, reaction kinetics and temperature effects provide important process insight. Other areas where spectroscopy adds value are fermentation monitoring, petrochemical blending, and analysis of complex mixtures like food and pharmaceutical formulations. By gathering highly specific spectral data without interfering with production processes, both manufacturing and product quality can be optimized.
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