Essential guide to spectroscopy selection: FTIR vs Raman spectrometers

Anton Paar, a leading provider of high-quality laboratory instruments, offers two exceptional choices in spectroscopy: the Lyza 7000 FTIR Spectrometer and the Cora 5001 Raman Spectrometer. This guide is designed to help potential buyers understand the distinct advantages of each, helping them make an informed decision about which instrument best suits their needs.

 FTIR spectroscopy

Lyza 7000 from Anton Paar exemplifies the latest in FTIR technology. This benchtop FTIR spectrometer offers precision and versatility for analysing solids, liquids, and gases. Lyza 7000 stands out for its ability to provide rapid, reliable measurements in combination with user-friendly workflows on the intuitive touchscreen interface. Its design is robust and optimised for quality control, including easy integration with AP Connect lab software, enhancing data management and operational efficiency.

The FTIR technique is particularly favoured for its broad applicability in identifying organic and some inorganic materials by measuring their absorption of infrared light at different wavelengths. This method is excellent for identifying and characterising samples, making it ideal for comprehensive material verification and quality control.

Raman spectroscopy

Complementary to this, Anton Paar's Cora 5001 Cora 5001 is a state-of-the-art benchtop Raman spectrometer that’s renowned for its precision and ease of use. Raman spectroscopy can identify chemical compounds through their molecular vibrations, making it invaluable for chemical and pharmaceutical labs. The Cora 5001 excels in reproducibility due to its autofocus that finds the best Raman signal within seconds, and can then analyse samples directly through glass or plastic containers. Its minimal sample preparation and fast, accurate measurements make it a top choice for rapid substance identification.

Raman spectroscopy is suited for situations where minimal sample interaction is desired. It is especially useful in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and forensic applications where clear, definitive substance characterisation is required without altering the sample state.

Choosing the right spectrometer

FTIR is highly-recommended for comprehensive analytical tasks that require detailed information and quality control for a wide array of sample types, including deeply-coloured and fluorescent samples. For many samples, established SOPs (e.g. ASTM standards) for IR spectroscopy are available.

Raman is best suited for rapid, non-invasive testing and precise substance identification, particularly in pharmaceutical and forensic settings. Samples can be measured through packaging, allowing the measurement of air and moisture sensitive materials. Cora 5001 includes a battery option for analysis in the field.

Understanding the operational strengths and contextual applications of Anton Paar's Lyza 7000 and Cora 5001 can significantly enhance both the efficiency and effectiveness of laboratory work.