Micro methods in infrared and Raman spectroscopy

Summary Employing the concept of the optical conductance [1–3] and taking into account the spectroscopic properties of the sample, firstly the features of sample arrangements are given, which are using minimal amounts of sample determined by the condition of complete illumination of the different types of spectrometers and using different techniques for infrared, near-infrared and Raman micro spectroscopy. Secondly, arrangements of a micro sample are discussed, the minimal size of which is determined by the laws of diffraction. In this case the spectrometers are usually not fully illuminated. The minimal amount of sample necessary is for infrared microscopy in the order of 1000 m³ (1 pg), for Raman microscopy of the order 100 m³ (0.1 pg). Examples demonstrate the state of the art and finally developments, which can be anticipated, are outlined.