Raman imaging from microscopy to macroscopy: Quality and safety control of biological materials

• Published in: TrAC, Trends in analytical chemistry (Regular ed.) Trends in analytical chemistry (Regular ed.), 2017-08, Vol.93, p.183-198
• Main Authors: Lohumi, Santosh, Kim, Moon S., Qin, Jianwei, Cho, Byoung-Kwan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Bioanalysis; Chemometrics; Food analysis; Macro-scale imaging; Pharmaceutical analysis; Raman imaging; Raman microscopy
• ISSN: 0165-9936; 1879-3142
• DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2017.06.002

Raman imaging can analyze biological materials by generating detailed chemical images. Over the past decade, significant advancements in Raman imaging and data analysis techniques have overcome problems such as long data acquisition and analysis times and poor sensitivity. In this review article, Raman spectroscopy and imaging are introduced and the corresponding computational methods for image data analysis are discussed. We provide an overview of the applications of this method in areas such as food, pharmaceutical, and biomedical sectors, with emphasis on recent developments that have helped industrialize its applications in various sectors. Finally, the current limitations and trends for future Raman imaging are outlined and discussed with a view toward new research practices for applying this technique more efficiently and adaptably in numerous sectors. •Reviewed Raman imaging techniques widely used for quality and safety analysis of biological materials.•Recent developments in Raman imaging instrumentation and data analysis methods are presented.•Novel macro-scale Raman imaging techniques applicable to industry are introduced.•The limitations and future of the Raman imaging techniques are discussed.