FT-Raman spectroscopic investigation of a pseudopolymorphic transition in caffeine hydrate

The FT-Raman spectra of caffeine hydrate and anhydrous β-caffeine have been recorded. The accelerated dehydration of the hydrate has been monitored at 30, 35 and 40°C using an environmental chamber. The spectra representing the individual pseudopolymorphic phases differed subtly throughout the entire spectral range. Gradual broadening of the =CH stretching vibration observed at 3121 cm⁻¹ and the progressive appearance of a C=O stretch at 1656 cm⁻¹ were ascribed to intermolecular bonding between CH and C=O in the anhydrous phase. Accompanying loss of resolution of CH deformations in the lower wavenumber region observed at 1475 and 1255 cm⁻¹ supports the suggestion of intermolecular association involving CH. Concurrent loss of resolution of the weak C=N stretch at 1454 cm⁻¹ and recession of the medium intensity H---C=N deformation at 1255 cm⁻¹ were also detected, acknowledging the loss of interaction between N9 of the imidazole ring and the water molecule. The concomitant disappearance of the weak H₂O libration at 890 cm⁻¹ is observed, which suggests the occurrence of molecular realignment associated with corresponding loss of water of crystallisation. On removal of the hydrate backbone of the caffeine hydrate crystal structure, the lattice collapses, resulting in reduction of the intermolecular distance between individual caffeine molecules. The subsequent formation of a less rigid structure is evident, whereby molecules are weakly associated by unconventional CH…O interactions.