Fast Raman Hyperspectral scanning of mining core samples

Long wave infrared (LWIR) spectroscopy is of great interest to spectral geologists. This is because minerals such as quartz, k-feldspar, pyroxene, hornblende, anorthite, calcite, and dolomite are only identifiable in the LWIR range, not in the short-wave infrared (SWIR) range. However, Raman spectroscopy is complementary to LWIR spectroscopy, providing fingerprint spectra of these minerals and an alternative identification method. But Raman spectroscopy also provides several additional benefits on the instrument side. Unlike LWIR spectrometers, Raman spectrometers do not have to manage large thermal backgrounds with cooled housings. They also provide a higher spectral resolution, and are a more cost-effective solution, compared to IR cameras.