Top articles published this week include a Q&A interview involving using µFT-IR to study the atmospheric deposits of microplastics, a news article about Raman spectroscopy in disease diagnosis, and a look at the latest advancements in mid-infrared (MIR) imaging.
This week, Spectroscopy published various articles that covered many topics in analytical spectroscopy. This week’s articles touch upon several important application areas such as environmental analysis and clinical analysis, and several key techniques are highlighted, including mid-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Below, we’ve highlighted some of the most popular articles, according to our readers and subscribers. Happy reading!
Measuring Microplastics in Remote and Pristine Environments
Microplastic (MP) detection in the environment is a hot topic and a focus for researchers in environmental analysis. However, studying the long-range transport of MPs remains a slightly under researched area in this space. Recently, Aleksandra “Sasha” Karapetrova, a graduate student at UC Riverside, and Win Cowger, research director at the Moore Institute for Plastic Pollution Research, studied atmospheric MP deposits in remote snow areas along the U.S. West Coast. Using µ-FT-IR spectroscopy and Open Specy software, they explored MPs' long-range transport (1). In an interview with Spectroscopy, they discussed their findings, offering valuable insights into the spread of MPs in isolated environments and the implications for environmental research (1).
Raman Spectroscopy in Disease Diagnosis
Raman spectroscopy is transforming biomedical sciences by enabling detailed, noninvasive molecular insights for disease diagnosis. A review by researchers from institutions like Harvard Medical School explores advanced techniques, including surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS), and resonance Raman spectroscopy (2). These methods excel in detecting early biochemical changes linked to diseases like cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and infections. Challenges include laser safety, substrate reproducibility, and data processing (2). Leveraging machine learning (ML) and deep learning is enhancing spectral analysis, offering faster and more accurate diagnoses. With continued advancements, Raman spectroscopy holds promise as a cornerstone of precision medicine in clinical practice.
Advances in Mid-Infrared Imaging: Single-Pixel Microscopy Modernized with Quantum Lasers
In this article, executive editor Jerome Workman Jr. summarizes a recent study that saw scientists create a mid-infrared (MIR) hyperspectral microscope using single-pixel imaging (SPI) and a quantum cascade laser (QCL) (3). This breakthrough enables faster, cost-effective chemical analysis, advancing microscopic imaging technology and expanding its potential applications (3).
Raman Spectroscopy and Deep Learning Enhances Blended Vegetable Oil Authentication
Researchers at Yanshan University developed a novel approach combining Raman spectroscopy with deep learning models—CNN-LSTM, improved AlexNet, and ResNet—to analyze blended vegetable oils like extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), soybean oil, and sunflower oil (4). These models outperformed traditional chemometric methods, achieving high predictive accuracy (R² > 0.995, RMSEP < 2%) (4). This advancement addresses food fraud challenges by ensuring precise authentication of blended oils. The study highlights the potential of deep learning in food quality control and broader applications in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, setting a new standard for rapid and accurate analysis of complex mixtures.
The Advantages and Landscape of Hyperspectral Imaging Spectroscopy
Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) combines spatially resolved and spectral data to analyze materials with exceptional precision, revealing subtle property variations. By integrating chemical and structural information, HSI enhances traditional spectroscopy (5). It finds applications in diverse fields, including environmental analysis, medicine, forensics, agriculture, and food science, advancing research, development, and quality control (5). This compilation of articles showcases the versatility of HSI.
Radar and Soil Spectroscopy Boost Soil Carbon Predictions in Brazil’s Semi-Arid Regions
July 7th 2025A new study published in Geoderma demonstrates that combining soil spectroscopy with radar-derived vegetation indices and environmental data significantly improves the accuracy of soil organic carbon predictions in Brazil’s semi-arid regions.
Deciphering Fossil Preservation in Brazil’s São Carlos Shale Using Analytical Spectroscopy
July 7th 2025A new study published in the Journal of South American Earth Sciences reveals how microbial activity, low pH conditions, and sediment chemistry in Brazil’s São Carlos Shale uniquely preserved diverse Upper Cretaceous fossils, offering fresh insights into the paleoenvironment of the Bauru Basin.
CRAIC Technologies Announces Launch of Maceral Identification Solution for Coal Analysis
July 3rd 2025In a press release, CRAIC Technologies announced the launch of its novel maceral identification solution that is designed to improve coal analysis. This new system contains high-speed imaging, servo-driven scanning, and intelligent software that work together to generate more accurate maceral analysis.
AI Boosts SERS for Next Generation Biomedical Breakthroughs
July 2nd 2025Researchers from Shanghai Jiao Tong University are harnessing artificial intelligence to elevate surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) for highly sensitive, multiplexed biomedical analysis, enabling faster diagnostics, imaging, and personalized treatments.