Spectrometers in Wonderland: Shrinking, Shrinking, Shrinking

This article gives a brief overview of the major portable techniques: those based on optical spectroscopy techniques, including near-infrared (NIR), mid-infrared (mid-IR), and Raman spectroscopy; mass spectrometry (MS) systems, high-pressure MS (HPMS), gas chromatography–MS (GC–MS), ion mobility (IMS); elemental such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF) laser-induced breakdown (LIBS); emerging miniaturized techniques like nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The above are all “conventional” spectroscopic reduced to rugged format, containing self-contained data systems. They provide specific actionable information their operators working with them outside laboratory—in field—and these instruments have well-defined value propositions. A recent development is availability low cost (<$100) multispectral sensors operating in visible NIR regions. enables be embedded into consumer products, smart “white goods” appliances, personal care, fitness even “wearables” products. In future, miniature spectrometers will ubiquitous—outside laboratory, your home pocket.