Why Choose HORIBA Raman Solutions?

In 2024, a notification arrived at the Museum of Art, Kochi questioning the authenticity of the painting “Girl and Swan,” part of the museum’s collection. This inquiry was rooted in the recent scandal that shook the art world: the arrest of Wolfgang Beltracchi, known as the "master of forgery." As more and more of Beltracchi's forgeries were uncovered, the museum began an investigation into the authenticity of “Girl and Swan,” prompted by information provided by the Berlin State Police.

Integration of sophisticated spectroscopic tools into the lab are being used not just to authenticate products, but to actively detect counterfeits.

Professor Akitoshi Hayashi develops all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries using sulfide-based electrolytes to enhance electric vehicle safety and performance. His team pioneered glass-type Li₃PS₄ electrolytes via mechanochemical synthesis. He applies Raman spectroscopy, especially with UV lasers, to analyze structural changes, detect degradation, and identify anionic species like PS₄³⁻. These measurements are key for evaluating amorphous materials. He also highlights challenges including hydrogen sulfide management, air stability, and commercialization of solid-state battery technologies.

MacroRAM Affordable Benchtop Raman Spectrometer

Dr. Sayo Fakayode of Georgia College & State University applies portable Raman spectroscopy combined with chemometric tools—regression and principal component analysis—to screen over-the-counter medicines and supplements. His approach rapidly detects and quantifies active ingredients in common OTC products, achieving approximately 94 % accuracy. This method is water insensitive, more convenient than chromatography, and allows in situ verification without opening containers. Fakayode’s work addresses global challenges arising from poorly regulated or counterfeit OTC consumables.

Professor Fiona Lyng from Technological University Dublin uses Raman microscopy to detect precancerous biochemical changes in cervical cells before visible morphological signs appear. Her method complements Pap tests and HPV screening by providing objective, molecular-level insight. Using green laser excitation and standard glass slides, her team identifies DNA, RNA, protein, and lipid signatures non-destructively. The approach integrates seamlessly into existing clinical workflows, offering a sensitive, specific, and minimally invasive tool for early cervical cancer detection.

A plaque on the door to one of Perl's chemistry labs. Photo by Howard Frank. Courtesy of JPL

Dr. Scott Perl, an astrobiologist and geobiologist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, treats extreme sites on Earth as planetary analogues to explore life’s persistence under harsh conditions. His research focuses on recognizing geological and biological biosignatures, including physical structures and chemical remnants, in salt-rich environments. By decoding salt records and comparing them with extraterrestrial scenarios, his work aids interpretation of potentially similar features on other solar system bodies. These insights support future planetary exploration aimed at discerning signs of life beyond Earth.

Dr. Patrick Z. El Khoury at PNNL advances tip enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) and custom multimodal nano optical methods to probe heterogeneous interfaces at the nanoscale. His work addresses how catalytic, electronic, or biological activity varies across tiny topographic sites by combining nano Raman, nano PL, nano CARS, SHG/SFG, TPPL and extinction measurements. These high-resolution tools—built on HORIBA’s AFM optical platforms—reveal unique local chemical and physical signatures that inform chemical physics fundamentals across diverse materials systems.

"Tokaido 53rd Nouchi Mizuguchi Choemon" (Kaei 5/1852), by Utagawa Toyokuni

Yuya Shimoi, an Ukiyo-e reproduction specialist from Shimoi Woodblock Printing Co. in Kamakura, collaborates with HORIBA’s Hakaru LAB in Tokyo to scientifically analyze original Edo period Ukiyo-e pigments. He uses energy-dispersive micro XRF (HORIBA XGT 5200) to non destructively determine elemental compositions of mineral pigments, and confocal Raman microscopy (LabRAM HR Evolution) to identify organic plant based dyes. This dual spectroscopic approach reveals materials like turmeric, safflower, lead-white, and oyster shell powder—unveiling mysteries about traditional paint usage and supporting faithful reproductions.

Dr. Masoud Mahjouri Samani from Auburn University custom-built a laser diagnostic microscope by integrating HORIBA iHR320, EMCCD, and PMT to characterize 2D quantum materials. His system performs Raman spectroscopy, photoluminescence, and time-correlated single photon counting to monitor real time structural and electronic changes—such as atomic vibrations and PL shifts—during processes like laser doping and defect induction. These advanced spectroscopic tools allow rapid, in-situ tracking of material behavior as researchers engineer next-generation components for quantum electronics and devices.

Perseverance Roving on Mars. (Courtesy of NASA/JPL-Caltech)

Dr. Andrew Czaja of the University of Cincinnati assists NASA’s Mars 2020 Perseverance mission by selecting promising rock samples from Jezero Crater that may preserve signs of ancient life. On Mars, PIXL (XRF) and SHERLOC (UV Raman) instruments measure elemental and organic signatures in situ. Back on Earth, Czaja plans to analyze returned Martian samples using a HORIBA T64000 Raman spectrometer to detect organic carbon and potential microbial textures. His work aims to identify biosignatures and inform future assessments of past Martian life.

Dr. Yury Gogotsi of Drexel University, co-inventor of MXenes, leads research into two-dimensional transition metal carbides and nitrides with unique electrical conductivity, hydrophilicity, and modular properties. These materials hold promise for fast-charging energy storage, smart wearable electronics, transparent conductive coatings, and more. His team, led in part by Asia Sarycheva, is building a Raman spectra library for MXenes. Raman spectroscopy fingerprinting enables analysis of composition, surface terminations, structural defects, and stacking order, advancing quality control and structure–property tuning in MXene nanotechnology.

Superimposed image of the pixels, showing the Raman information extracted and analyzed.

Dr. Andreas Ruediger at INRS Université du Québec employs Raman spectroscopy to recover serial numbers ground off polymer firearms. Mechanical embossing induces subsurface residual strain that persists even after grinding. His team captured spectral imaging showing Raman peak shifts (up to ~1 cm⁻¹) and broadening correlating with strain. Combined imaging and histogram analysis enabled visualization and statistical confirmation of obliterated characters up to hundreds of micrometers deep. This nondestructive approach offers promising forensic tools for law enforcement.

This HORIBA feature explores how Raman microscopy can help expose art forgeries by non-destructively analyzing the molecular makeup of pigments and materials. By capturing detailed Raman spectra of authentic and suspect artworks, scientists can identify inconsistencies in chemical fingerprints that indicate restoration, aging discrepancies, or fraudulent compositions. With diligence, appropriate instrumentation, and expert interpretation, Raman microscopy empowers specialists to discern genuine works from forgeries, potentially reducing the prevalence of counterfeit art in the market.

This HORIBA Science in Action entry defines microplastics as plastic fragments ≤ 5 mm, either purposefully manufactured (primary) or deriving from breakdown of larger plastic debris (secondary) The article highlights the ubiquity of microplastics—in oceans, soils, rainwater, food, salt, sugar, beer, and honey. It distinguishes primary particles intentionally released (e.g., in cosmetics) from secondary ones formed via environmental degradation, emphasizing the diverse and pervasive nature of this pollutant.

Where do primary microplastics come from?

Microplastics – tiny plastic particles smaller than 5 mm – from that shirt or car tires are seeping into our biosphere. We ingest, inhale and absorb these particles through our skin.

Microplastics are turning up everywhere. Microplastics in water, microplastics in the ocean.

This HORIBA Science in Action article defines microplastics as plastic fragments smaller than 5 mm formed via environmental degradation of larger items under sunlight, wind, and water. It reports widespread contamination—from drinking water (over 90% of sampled bottled water contained microplastics) to marine environments, beaches, and glaciers horiba.com. Microplastics also act as vectors for bacteria, algae, and pollutants. Highlighting their persistence, ubiquity, and varied toxicities, the article underscores the growing environmental threat posed by these pervasive pollutants.

This HORIBA Science in Action article explores microplastics—tiny plastic particles (≤ 5 mm) either manufactured or formed through degradation—that are contaminating oceans, drinking water, rain, salt, and even the air we breathe. They serve as carriers for pollutants, bacteria, and viruses, entering wildlife and human food chains. Raman spectroscopy plays a crucial role in identifying the chemical composition and origins of these particles, supporting the development of policies and monitoring procedures to limit microplastic contamination.

HORIBA LabRAM HR Evolution Raman Spectrometer

Dr. Rui He at Texas Tech University investigates 2D materials like graphene, MoS₂, and chromium triiodide at ultra-low temperatures (~10 K, close to absolute zero). She uses HORIBA’s LabRAM HR Evolution Raman spectroscopy to capture vibrational, electronic, and magnetic excitations, including terahertz-frequency spin waves in ferromagnetic 2D materials. These fundamental measurements reveal temperature-dependent phase transitions and magnetic behavior key to designing faster, energy-efficient spintronic or optoelectronic devices, guiding future advances toward room-temperature application readiness.

Sukwon Choi, Ph.D., and Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Penn State University

Professor Sukwon Choi at Penn State University harnesses Raman spectroscopy as an “optical thermometer” to noninvasively probe submicron thermal hotspots in microelectronic devices prone to overheating. By measuring phonon energies through shifts in Raman band positions and comparing intensities of Stokes and anti Stokes scatterings using a LabRAM HR Evolution Raman microscope, his approach achieves high spatial and temperature resolution. This technique enables precise local temperature mapping essential for designing cooling systems and enhancing power device reliability.

Dr. Wei Min of Columbia University is pioneering the application of Raman spectroscopy—particularly stimulated Raman scattering—for biomedical imaging to visualize metabolism and molecular dynamics in living tissues. He uses supermultiplexed optical imaging, deploying dozens of distinct Raman probes simultaneously to map diverse biomarkers within cells and tissues. This label-free, high-throughput method holds promise for earlier disease diagnosis, better understanding of metabolic disorders (like cancer, obesity, neurodegeneration), and enhanced drug development by revealing molecular processes in unprecedented detail.

Aaron Celestian’s research employs Raman spectroscopy and XRF to evaluate minerals used for treating toxic waste. By analyzing their chemical composition and structure, he identifies which minerals most effectively immobilize or neutralize contaminants. This scientific approach helps determine optimal materials for environmental remediation, guiding efforts to restore polluted sites. Spectroscopic data enable selection of mineral-based solutions that can "heal our world" by targeting specific toxic compounds through evidence-based mineral waste treatment strategies.

Dr. Aaron Celestian of the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County harnesses museum mineral collections for environmental and practical research. Using HORIBA’s non-destructive Raman spectroscopy (XploRA Plus) and micro XRF (XGT 7200), he analyzes rare minerals and fluid inclusions in real time without damaging samples. His work explores mineral interactions in natural and extraterrestrial contexts, including using zeolites like sitinakite to remediate nuclear-contaminated sites. He also engages community researchers and students, combining conservation, education, and scientific discovery.

optical hyperspectral image overlaid on an enhanced darkfield image

Dr. Christie Sayes at Baylor University explores the emerging field of nanotoxicology, assessing risks linked to engineered nanoparticles—tiny particles sized 1–100 nm used in medicine, electronics, catalysis, and remediation. Her research indicates they can enter the body via inhalation, ingestion, or dermal contact, traverse cell membranes, and migrate to organs like the heart and brain. Animal studies show biochemical damage, inflammatory responses, apoptosis, and possible links to chronic disease. Exposure route, dose, and particle chemistry are key to understanding toxicity.

Raman Spectroscopy identifies unknown particles in the food and drug supply

Mark Witkowski of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Trace Examination Section uses HORIBA Raman spectroscopy to tackle counterfeit pharmaceuticals, supplements, and contaminated foods. Employing non-destructive micro-Raman (LabRAM IR2) and automated XploRA PLUS with ParticleFinder™, his team rapidly analyzes small particles and tablets. Raman spectra reveal the chemical fingerprint of components, allowing comparison to authentic products and identification of fake or adulterated formulations. This forensic approach preserves evidence integrity and supports investigations targeting counterfeiters.

Professor George Tsilomelekis at Rutgers University investigates how inexpensive, renewable sources—particularly non-edible biomass, methane, ethane, and propane—can be catalytically upgraded into value-added products like fuels, solvents, polymer precursors, and fuel additives. Using operando vibrational spectroscopy methods (Raman plus infrared), he observes molecular interactions and conversion pathways within catalytic reactors in real-time. This spectroscopic insight enables structure–activity correlations, catalyst optimization, faster screening, and improved selectivity—paving the way for more sustainable chemical production from renewable feedstocks.

Prof. Igor K. Lednev at SUNY Albany develops Raman spectroscopy for forensic use, enabling non-destructive identification of body fluids (blood, semen, saliva, sweat) using a universal chemical fingerprint, unlike presumptive biochemical tests. His team also measures the age of bloodstains to time crime events. Lednev is working to translate lab workflows to handheld Raman devices that law enforcement could deploy on-site, allowing rapid, low-cost sample triage.

Eric Ellison at the University of Colorado Boulder uses confocal Raman microspectroscopy (LabRAM HR Evolution) to analyze ultra-thin slices of peridotite rocks from deep beneath the Earth’s surface. He spatially maps crystal structures and chemical signatures to identify minerals that formed during serpentinization reactions-processes that generate hydrogen and could support microbial ecosystems. Through detailed mineralogical mapping, Ellison seeks to uncover evidence for ancient subsurface life on Earth—and analogous environments on other planetary bodies.

Dr. Andrew Whitley, Vice President of Sales and Business Development at HORIBA Scientific, merges technical expertise with business acumen. A classically trained chemist (PhD in vibrational spectroscopy, University of Durham), he champions applied Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy, leveraging his FACSS Charles Mann Award winning body of work to foster new applications and broaden HORIBA’s reach. Choosing a business-focused path rather than bench research, he empowers researchers globally by tailoring instrumentation solutions and enabling success.

Professor Andrew Czaja, a paleobiologist at the University of Cincinnati, investigates ancient microbial life by examining microscopic fossils and their chemical signatures preserved in Earth’s oldest rocks. Using thin rock slices and a HORIBA T64000 high-performance Raman spectrometer, he maps organic carbon distributions and distinguishes authentic biological remnants from background minerals. Czaja’s methods help validate evidence of early life on Earth and inform similar analyses for future Martian samples, strengthening our understanding of life’s potential beyond our planet.

Why Choose HORIBA Raman Solutions?

Testimonials

Science in Action articles

Request for Information