Spectroscopy Laboratory (SpecLab)
Who we are
The Spectroscopy Laboratory has a focus on vibrational spectroscopy techniques, Raman and infrared, enabling chemical characterisation and micron-scale mapping of solids, liquids and powders. Raman spectroscopy analyses molecular symmetry and provides fingerprint identification of molecules. It works well with water-based samples and those opaque to infrared radiation.The technique is sensitive to vibrations involving changes in polarisability.
This non-destructive technique uses light scattering to identify and map the chemical composition of various materials. FTIR spectroscopy provides information about functional groups present in a molecule and excellent for studying hydrogen bonding and carbonyl groups. It works well with solids and liquids. This technique identifies functional groups within molecules. UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy technique measures the absorption or reflection of light across the ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared regions.
Funding partners:
Capabilities
Utilising the complementary strengths of Raman and FTIR spectroscopy, our lab provides definitive identification of a wide range of organic and inorganic materials, including polymers, minerals, and biological molecules by analysing their unique vibrational fingerprints and characteristic functional group signatures to determine their chemical composition and structure.
In-depth characterisation of various materials, including polymers (assessing crystallinity, blends, degradation), carbon nanomaterials (analysing structure and defects), and thin films, leveraging the sensitivity of Raman and FTIR to structural and chemical properties crucial for materials science and engineering.
Comprehensive micro-plastic analysis, employing high-resolution micro-FTIR and Raman microscopy to identify polymer types, characterise particle size and shape, and map their distribution in environmental samples, biological samples, and consumer products, contributing to crucial environmental research.
Our lab offers powerful tools for investigating biological samples, including mapping lipid and amino acid distribution within cells using Raman and FTIR microscopy, and quantifying biomolecules like nucleic acids and proteins with UV-Vis spectroscopy, providing insights into cellular processes and biomolecular interactions.
Our lab employs a suite of highly sensitive techniques, including Raman, micro-FTIR, and UV-Vis, enabling the detection and identification of trace amounts of substances and contaminants in various matrices, crucial for applications ranging from environmental monitoring to forensic analysis and quality control.
Instruments
Our people
Fees
How to access
Advanced bookings for the sample service or instrument training should be made by email.
Contact us
Spectroscopy Facility
June Griffith Building (F10)
Ground Floor, Room G31
UNSW Sydney
Kensington NSW 2025
Phone: 02 9385 9795
Email: spec@unsw.edu.au
We like to hear from you. If you have questions, requests or ideas for collaboration, please complete the contact form and we will be in touch within five business days.
Resources
Get in touch about your project
We offer a range of services that can be tailored to your needs. Please send us an enquiry to get started.
