Thanks to its exceptional specificity and ease of use, Raman spectroscopy has been the preferred tool for identifying potentially hazardous substances for over a decade. The convergence of small diode lasers and sensitive CCD and CMOS detectors with a compact and robust optical design has moved Wasatch Raman systems into the hands of first responders and security personel worldwide.
At the heart of every high-performance Raman system is a carefully engineered spectrometer. Its speed, sensitivity, and mechanical and thermal stability are critical in determining the reliability and accuracy of chemical identification.
Raman specificity extends from identifying single compounds all the way to characterizing complex mixtures, such as tissues or cell cultures. Variations in spectral signatures can be correlated with cell type, bacterial identity, and antibiotic response. Antibody-conjugated, SERS-based Raman markers are increasingly used in lateral flow assays, paired with dedicated Raman readers, to enable disease diagnosis from a single drop of blood. For these applications, reproducible spectra, tolerance to biological autofluorescence and overall ease of use are critical.
With the exception of rare gases and metals, nearly all materials exhibit a Raman spectrum, making Raman spectroscopy a highly versatile tool across both fundamental and applied research. Its applications span a wide range of fields, from biological samples to geological materials, from microfluidics to solar cells.
Because no two experiments are identical, Raman systems must be configurable to match specific requirements, ranging from the sample interface to the excitation wavelength and optical specifications of the spectrometer.
Tight control of chemical and biotechnological processes improves yield, productivity and product quality. In biotechnology, Raman spectroscopy enables real-time monitoring of feedstock levels, critical parameters that guide microorganisms from growth phases to target production. In chemical processing, it provides direct insight into composition, allowing optimization of parameters such as reflux ratios in fractional distillation, thereby increasing throughput.
For these applications, Raman spectrometers must support robust, 24/7 operation, with calibration curves that transfer unit-to-unit.
Misty Johnson is responsible for taking care of our grating customers at the Logan, Utah, facility. She has been a member of the Wasatch Photonics team since 2009. By understanding her customers’ needs and goals, as well as the current grating market, Misty is able to provide a superior level of customer support. As Account Manager, she acts as a liaison between customers and Wasatch Photonics’ manufacturing department making sure that the lines of communication are always open.
Customer support is an integral part of Wasatch Photonics commitment to customers. Whether you are in the market to purchase a single grating, inquiring as a distributor, or purchasing large volume, Misty will guide you seamlessly through the custom design process. Misty strives to build trust and strong long term relationships with Wasatch Photonics customers. She brings 20 years’ experience as customer support manager from a number of manufacturing and service companies.
