Applications of Laser Raman Spectroscopy

Raman spectroscopy has undergone a technical revolution during the last fifteen years. Following a brief introduction to the physical principles we present recent applications to materials of technological interest. Nearinfrared excitation, in particular, offers the ability to measure the Raman spectrum in the absence of undesired absorption and photoreactions. The combination of Raman spectroscopy with microscopic techniques allows the study of materials on the micron scale with high molecular specificity. In the microstructural analysis of waveguide devices Raman spectroscopy employing integrated optical techniques can be extremely sensitive. As an example we review recent results on chalcogenide waveguides. ∗ Author to whom correspondence should be sent. email: [email protected]