Reflective Sample Holder for Raman Spectroscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Raman and luminescence spectroscopy sample holders lack suitable sample handling techniques, requiring large sample sizes and resulting in high costs and complicated spectral analysis due to fluorescence and Raman background issues.
Innovation Solution
Development of novel accessories including sample cups, cup arrays, and well plates made from reflective metals and coated with dielectric materials, which enhance sample handling, sensitivity, and reduce sample consumption and holder costs, while minimizing fluorescence and Raman background.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional sample holders are used, then sample handling is simple, but sample size required is large and spectral analysis is complicated by background interference
Solution Approach 1:
The sample holder employs different materials for different functional zones: the well plate is made of black material to minimize light scattering and fluorescence, while the cover slip is made of optically transparent material (quartz, glass, or plastic) to allow light transmission. This local differentiation of material properties optimizes both light interaction and sample containment, enabling high-quality spectral analysis with minimal sample.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample holder combines multiple materials with complementary properties: black material for the well plate body (to reduce background interference), optically transparent material for the cover slip (to transmit light), and reflective material for the bottom surface (to enhance signal). This composite structure resolves the contradiction by integrating materials that collectively improve measurement precision while requiring minimal sample quantity.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional sample holders are used, then manufacturing is simple, but holder cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The sample holder is divided into separable components: a well plate portion and a cover slip portion that can be manufactured independently and then assembled. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function and manufactured using appropriate processes, reducing overall cost while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample holder is designed as a disposable accessory that can be discarded after single use, eliminating the need for expensive cleaning and sterilization processes. This approach reduces holder cost by using inexpensive materials that don't require complex manufacturing or post-processing, while maintaining ease of manufacture through simple injection molding or similar processes.
3Measurement precision
If conventional sample holders are used, then sample handling is straightforward, but sample sensitivity is reduced and sample consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The cover slip acts as an intermediary between the sample and the spectrometer, providing a smooth, optically transparent interface that enhances light transmission and signal quality. The reflective bottom surface serves as another intermediary that bounces light back through the sample, increasing interaction path length and sensitivity without complicating sample handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample holder creates a localized optimal environment for spectroscopy at the sample-contact interface: the reflective bottom enhances signal, the transparent cover slip maximizes light transmission, and the black well plate minimizes background interference. This local optimization of properties at critical interfaces improves sample sensitivity while maintaining straightforward handling through standard well plate formats.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The new accessories improve spectral analysis by reducing sample size, enhancing sensitivity, and lowering costs, making Raman and luminescence spectroscopy more efficient and effective across various applications.
Implementation Method 1
minimizing fluorescence and Raman background
Implementation Method 2
minimizing fluorescence and Raman background
Implementation Method 3
made from reflective metals and coated with dielectric materials
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides for a novel series of accessories for Raman and/or luminescence spectral acquisitions for many different applications and methods for making such accessories. The invention further provides sample holders that enhance sample handling ability and sample sensitivity, reduce fluorescence and Raman background, as well as sample size and consumption, and thereby improve resulting spectral analyses.