This document introduces the Imaging technology, including the definition and implementation of Imaging.
This document defines imaging in the context of infrared spectroscopy and describes three primary techniques for acquiring wavelength-specific images of samples. The first technique discussed is mapping, where a sample is moved under a microscope objective to collect spectra from a grid of points sequentially. This method is noted for being time-consuming and inefficient, particularly for small samples or those changing over time.
The second technique is line mapping or raster scanning, which uses a linear array of detectors to collect data row by row. While faster than point mapping, it still requires significant stage movement time and can be slow at high resolutions. The document concludes by describing spectrochemical imaging as the most efficient method, utilizing a Focal Plane Array (FPA) to capture a full 2-dimensional image with spectral information at every point simultaneously.
A typical map could take hours to days to run.
Analysis times are in the order of seconds to minutes.
The technique provides high spatial resolution of approximately 5 microns.