Raman imaging is a rapidly evolving technology for noninvasive chemical imaging of microscopic composites and biological materials. The power of Raman imaging stems from the high chemical information content of molecular vibrational spectra. However, Raman spectroscopy is an inelastic light scattering process and therefore the acquisition of Raman spectra is the time limiting factor in Raman imaging. By combining an ultrahigh throughput confocal microscope with an extremely sensitive spectroscopy system the integration time for the acquisition of Raman spectra can be reduced below 100 milliseconds. This short integration time enables the acquisition of arrays of thousands of complete Raman spectra within minutes. The confocal setup reduces in addition unwanted background signals, enhances contrast and provides depth information. The images are evaluated from the two dimensional array of the collected Raman spectra by isolating spectral characteristics such as peak intensity, width, position, etc. Differences in chemical composition, although completely invisible in optical images, will be apparent in the Raman image and can be analyzed with a resolution down to 200 nm. If higher resolution is required, by simply turning the microscope turret, the confocal Raman microscope can be transformed in to an AFM. Using this imaging technique, structures below the diffraction limit can be visualized from the same sample area.
Aim of this contribution is to present the key features required for high speed confocal Raman microscopy and to prove its capabilities with Raman and AFM images obtained on composite materials and polymeric films.

• Legal notice:
  

  Copyright (c) Pielaszek Research, all rights reserved.
  The above materials, including auxiliary resources, are subject to Publisher's copyright and the Author(s) intellectual rights. Without limiting Author(s) rights under respective Copyright Transfer Agreement, no part of the above documents may be reproduced without the express written permission of Pielaszek Research, the Publisher. Express permission from the Author(s) is required to use the above materials for academic purposes, such as lectures or scientific presentations.
  In every case, proper references including Author(s) name(s) and URL of this webpage: https://science24.com/paper/15567 must be provided.

1. Witec GmbH