WITec’s alpha300 R confocal Raman microscope series pioneered advanced Raman imaging systems. Continuous development driven by WITec’s innovative spirit keeps its range of capabilites at the industry's leading edge.
The alpha300 R offers exceptional speed, sensitivity, and resolution. These qualities are available simultaneously and without compromise, which allows the quick investigation of even weak Raman scatterers and extremely low material concentrations or volumes with the lowest excitation energy. Optimized optical components enable Raman spectra to be recorded at each image pixel with acquisition times on the order of milliseconds.
Due to its confocal beampath, it is not only possible to collect information from the sample's surface, but also to peer inside transparent samples and obtain 3D information through depth scans and image stacks. When analyzing dedicated peak spectral characteristics, a variety of images can be generated using a single set of data. This makes it possible for the distribution of chemical compounds, crystallinity, or material stress properties to be visualized. In addition to its imaging capabilities, the system can also be used to collect Raman spectra at specified sample areas, along arbitrary lines, or in the form of time series.
The inherent modularity of the alpha300 R makes it possible to integrate Raman imaging with complementary imaging methods such as AFM, SNOM and SEM, and lets it evolve with changing experimental requirements. Applications include pharmaceutics, materials science, coating and thin film analysis, food science and many others.
Key features of the alpha300 R
- Confocal Raman imaging with industry-leading performance in sensitivity, speed, and resolution
- Non-destructive imaging method: No staining or specialized sample preparation necessary
- Combinable with AFM, SNOM and SEM (RISE microscopy)
- Unrivaled lateral resolution
- Image generation with the data of a complete Raman spectrum at every image pixel
- Ultra-high throughput spectroscopic system
- Exceptional depth resolution for 3D image generation and depth profiles
- Modular and upgradeable for evolving experiments
Confocal 3D Raman volume image of a pharmaceutical emulsion. The oil phase (green) is partially removed in the image for better visibility of the silicon impurities (red) in the water and API containing phase (blue). Image Credit: WITec GmbH
Raman image of a lignified plant cell. Image Credit: WITec GmbH
Raman image of a fingerprint with explosive material residues. Image Credit: WITec GmbH
Specifications
Raman general operation modes
- Raman spectral imaging: acquisition of a complete Raman spectra at every image pixel
- Planar (x-y-direction) and depth scans (z-direction) with manual sample positioning
- Image stacks: 3D confocal Raman imaging
- Time series
- Single point Raman spectrum acquisition
- Single-point depth profiling
- Fiber-coupled UHTS spectrometer specifically designed for Raman microscopy and applications with low light intensities
- Fluorescence Microscopy
- Bright Field Microscopy
Basic microscope features
- Research grade optical microscope
- LED white-light source for Köhler illumination
- Manual sample positioning in x- and y-direction
- Fiber coupling
- Sample size: 120 mm in x- and y-direction, 25 mm in height
Raman optional/upgradable operation modes
- Additional lasers, many wavelengths available
- Additional UHTS-spectrometers (UV, VIS, NIR)
- Automated, motorized sample positioning and measuring with piezo-driven scan stages
- Automated multi-area and multi-point measurements
- Upgradable for Epi-fluorescence applications
- Adapter for taller samples
- TrueSurface for topographic Raman imaging
- Autofocus
- Dark Field Microscopy, Phase Contrast Microscopy, and DIC optional
Ultrahigh-throughput UHTS spectrometers
- Various lens-based, excitation wavelength-optimized spectrometers (UV, VIS or NIR) available, all specifically designed for Raman microsopy and applications with low light intensities
- Fiber-coupled ultrahigh-throughput optical instruments (up to 70 % transmission)
- Superior peak shape
Computer interface
- WITec software for instrument and measurement control, data evaluation and processing