Aqueous systems research background

Since 1970, researchers have recognized that RS offers great promise for environmental analysis because measurements can be made directly on contaminants in water [9]. Unfortunately, developments in this area were slow until recently because of the historical problems associated with RS, namely high detection levels, severe problems with fluorescence backgrounds, and the need for large and complex instrumentation. However, as we have described, the sensitivity of NRS has increased considerably over the decade prior to this writing. This improvement is due to advances in instrumental components that make up the modem dispersive Raman instmment. Also, advances in instmmental components have made these spectrometers more compact and portable, able to record spectra much quicker, less hindered by fluorescence, much simpler and less dependent on specialized facilities, more amenable to remote application, and much easier to operate. All of these improvements have led recently to more widespread application to environmental problems in aqueous systems, as illustrated in Table 1. However, further improvement will be needed for the full potential of RS to be realized in this arena. 

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