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The effect of spectral resolution on the Raman spectra of polyaromatic hydrocarbons and beta‐carotene mixtures
Author(s) -
Alajtal A. I.,
Edwards H. G. M.,
Scowen I. J.
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
journal of raman spectroscopy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.748
H-Index - 110
eISSN - 1097-4555
pISSN - 0377-0486
DOI - 10.1002/jrs.2681
Subject(s) - raman spectroscopy , spectral resolution , chemistry , mars exploration program , resolution (logic) , analytical chemistry (journal) , spectrometer , spectral line , laser , optics , astrobiology , environmental chemistry , physics , astronomy , artificial intelligence , computer science
The spectroscopic basis for extraterrestrial life‐detection through the molecular signatures of relevant biomaterials is dependent upon several instrumental facilities which could effect the diagnostic interpretation of key Raman bands from relevant substances occurring together in the geological record. To this effect, the Raman spectra of several polyaromatic hydrocarbons have been investigated under different conditions of spectral resolution using FT‐Raman‐spectroscopy operating at 1064 nm laser excitation wavelength. The observed Raman spectra are considerably altered under different conditions of spectral resolution; in particular, the discrimination between several polyaromatic hydrocarbons and beta‐carotene no longer becomes possible as the spectral resolution decreases. These results are relevant for the evaluation of miniaturised Raman spectrometers for space flight missions and incorporation into instrumentation for landers and rovers being proposed for future missions to Mars. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.