Mass Spectrometry & Spectroscopy
Through-container analysis with Raman spectroscopy Melissa J. Gelwicks, PhD, Metrohm Raman Safely identify materials without contact
The innovative Metrohm TacticID-1064 ST allows users to test through packaging and analyse the contents. See-through analysis is fast, easy, and prevents operator and material exposure to potential contaminants. TacticID-1064 ST is the fi rst handheld 1064 nm Raman device capable of testing through paper, plastic, and glass barriers - even mixed, multi-layer, or coloured materials.
First responders facing potentially deadly substances and situations benefi t most from see-through sampling. From content ID of a suspicious bag during a traffi c stop to analysis of homemade incendiary devices, every second counts and nothing can be left to chance. TacticID-1064 ST also benefi ts manufacturers who perform raw material verifi cation. Operators can test container contents without exposure and get results in seconds. This streamlines QC and supports 100% testing of incoming goods. It also enables 90% of testing to happen at the point of receipt and avoids delays in production due to laboratory wait times.
Introduction
All Raman systems have some inherent ability to test through thin and transparent barriers like glass vials and clear plastic. Thick barriers - especially opaque or coloured glass, plastic, and multiple layers of paper - require a modifi ed optical system. TacticID-1064 ST (TID1064ST, Figure 1) handheld Raman system uses 1064 nm laser excitation to penetrate through packaging and analyse the contents of almost any container.
The ability to identify the contents of containers without opening them signifi cantly expands a device’s application range. This means that users can perform non-invasive scans for identifi cation of unknowns or quality control in manufacturing. Ultimately, TID1064ST can enhance the safety, effi ciency, and accuracy of material identifi cation.
Figure 1. Finding contraband - from fentanyl to anthrax - in the mail is a very real issue. The ability of Raman to scan through paper is an invaluable asset.
Confi guration • The TacticID®
• Metrohm Comprehensive Raman Library - More than 27,700 spectral entries of chemicals, minerals, organic chemicals, solvents, polymers, dyes and pigments, TICs, TIMs, inorganics and organometallics, personal care products, and illicit materials for the Metrohm TacticID-1064 ST.
• Metrohm Illicit and General Chemicals Raman Library for the Metrohm TacticID-1064 ST includes drugs, TICs, TIMs, precursors, and general chemicals.
• TDL-EXP: Explosives library for the Metrohm TacticID-1064 ST
• TDL-XM-CWA: Chemical Warfare Agents (CWA) library for the Metrohm TacticID-1064 ST.
See-through capabilities
TID1064ST with the See-Through (ST) Smart Attachment can measure samples situated inside bottles, envelopes, and even dense chemical storage containers. A unique data analysis algorithm quickly identifies and separates the container signature from the sample signature, accurately identifying both. Users can obtain reliable data in seconds, enhancing decision-making processes and streamlining workflows. A comprehensive library significantly enhances the device’s versatility, enabling users to confidently identify thousands of materials.
Sampling options for see-through analysis
Each TID1064ST Smart Attachment is recognised by the device, which automatically adjusts sampling specifi cs. The ST Attachment is ideal for thicker, opaque containers and packaging. This includes multiple layers of mixed materials like a solid sample wrapped in plastic inside of an envelope. It is not appropriate for liquid samples.
Other TID1064ST Smart Attachments (Figure 2) can be used in some through- packaging scenarios:
• General: 5.5 mm working distance. Suitable for solid, gel, and liquid samples in transparent/translucent containers.
• Long Working Distance: 8 mm working distance. Suitable for solids and liquids in thick-walled bottles and containers. The Bottle Adapter is an optional addition that optimises contact between the device and curved surfaces.
• Short Working Distance: Suitable for direct contact surface testing and sampling of solid, gel, and liquid samples in thin transparent containers, such as thin plastic baggies.
-1064 ST is a 1064 nm handheld Raman analyser for rapid fi eld
identifi cation of explosives, narcotics, and other suspicious materials. The see- through capability of the TacticID-1064 ST can nondestructively analyse samples through opaque and transparent packaging, with sample threat level displayed prominently for fi rst responders, safety personnel, law enforcement, bomb squads, customs and border protection, and hazmat teams to act quickly with minimal sample contact.
Best practices for good results
Avoid exposure to ambient light at the aperture by holding the Smart Attachment fi rmly against the sample container during the entire scan. Do not move the device or the sample during acquisition.
INTERNATIONAL LABMATE - SEPTEMBER 2025
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