Remote Raman Spectroscopy in Natural Environments

Remote Raman spectroscopy is used primarily for on-site rapid detection of dangerous goods, contraband, and deteriorated food from a safe distance. Early applications of remote Raman spectroscopy used visible or near-infrared lasers to excite the Raman spectrum. Such experiments were often conducted in the laboratory or at night, to avoid the influence of environmental light. Recently, solar-blind ultraviolet Raman spectroscopy has been widely used because of its advantages compared to visible or near-infrared approaches. Their advantages include a strong resonance effect, lack of interference from ambient light, and relative safety for the human eye. This study reviews the development of remote visible or near-infrared and ultraviolet Raman spectroscopy based on the analysis of the basic principles in natural environments. The advantages of remote ultraviolet Raman spectroscopy in the fields of anti-terrorism, drug control, and food safety are highlighted. The current challenges and development trends in remote Raman spectroscopy in natural environments are summarized.