With over 50 years of experience in spectroscopy innovation, Thermo Fisher Scientific provides instruments and support that help lab technicians, researchers, and students break barriers that once felt impossible.
Our vibrational spectroscopy solutions—including near IR, multi-range FTIR, and Raman instruments—deliver the performance, reliability, and ease of use you need to succeed.
Whether you’re a seasoned spectroscopist or just starting, our solutions help you collect high-quality data and have confidence in your results.
Take a moment to browse some of these key application areas to help you in your material analysis needs.
Guided by pharmacology and clinical sciences, and driven by chemistry, pharmaceutical research plays a crucial role in the development of pharmaceuticals.
From the stages of drug development to marketing and post-marketing, a plethora of analytical techniques are used for the investigation of bulk drug materials, intermediates, drug products, drug formulations, impurities and degradation products, and biological samples containing the drugs and their metabolites.
The aim is to understand the physical and chemical stability of the drug, the impact on the selection and design of the dosage form, the stability of the drug molecules, and the quantity and identity of the impurities, amongst others.
Our wide range of solutions provide resources to monitor your drug quickly and accurately as it moves through the development workflow but also enables quality and regulatory compliance through the drug formulation, development, and manufacturing processes.
Research and development applications in the pharmaceutical industry include:
With this non-destructive method that requires little to no sample preparation, Raman is the ideal technique for ultra-fast chemical imaging for a wide range of scientific investigations.
Pharmaceutical investigators can employ Raman in several stages of their workflow—from drug formulation and development to quality control. Raman can quickly identify the chemical structure of samples to pinpoint defects and contaminants, helping pharmaceutical companies to maintain product consistency.
DXR3xi Raman Imaging Microscope
The DXR3xi Raman Imaging Microscope is a complete, integrated package that provides stunning chemical images and quick research-quality results.
Use NIR to support continuous or batch manufacturing and deliver high-quality products with analytical workflows that meet all compliance needs.
Apply non-destructive techniques to meet high throughput demands and final product QA/QC lab requirements. Leverage Process Analytical Technology (PAT) to minimize the risk and reduce costs to your organization. Benefit from the flexibility of sampling methods for both upstream and downstream online analysis demand in bioprocessing.
Antaris II FT-NIR analyzer
The Antaris II FT-NIR Analyzer provides robust and reliable calibrations that can be migrated from the laboratory to at-line, online, and in-line analysis.
Our FTIR spectrometers enable you to perform raw material identification, differentiate between polymorphs, and analyze formulated products with specificity, speed, and reliability. With software tools to support data integrity and required validation protocols, and hardware modules designed to work 24-7-365 with minimal re-qualification needs, these spectrometers help you comply with pharmacopeia regulatory requirements while getting the job done.
Nicolet iS20 FTIR Spectrometer
Maximize laboratory productivity and quickly collect high-quality spectral data with the Thermo Scientific™ Nicolet™ iS20 FTIR Spectrometer. An integrated touch panel allows users of any skill level to quickly analyze challenging samples and a new multi-color LED scan bar gives users immediate feedback on whether the instrument is in idle, collect or alert mode. Identify unknown contaminants, perform failure analysis and accurately analyze mixtures using the spectral power of the Thermo Scientific™ LightDrive™ Optical Engine built into each instrument.
Nicolet RaptIR FTIR Microscope
The Nicolet RaptIR research-grade FTIR microscope helps you rapidly locate and identify trace materials, inclusions, impurities, microparticles, and the distribution of materials within a sample with incredible clarity and precision.
Nicolet Summit X FTIR Spectrometer
The unique LightDrive Optical Engine and the user-friendly interface of the Thermo Scientific OMNIC Paradigm Software enables programmed applications that streamline data acquisition, processing, and interpretation.
Pharmaceutical Application Resources
View More Resources →Safely accelerating drug development for brighter outcomes
Learn more about our wide range of range of spectroscopy and materials characterization tools – FTIR, NIR, and Raman techniques plus others.
Read MoreeBook: FTIR/NIR/Raman in (Bio) Pharmaceutical Analysis
Here we present expert interviews on the applications of vibrational spectroscopy (Raman, NIR, FTIR) in biologics manufacturing.
Read MoreBiopharmaceutical Spectroscopy Infographic
Explore the latest spectroscopy techniques involved in the purification of biologics.
Read MoreThe complex nature of batteries requires a multi-faceted combination of electro-chemical analyses and materials characterization techniques.
Raman spectroscopy has emerged as an important analytical technique that can be used to characterize a variety of battery components. Advantages of Raman include minimal sample preparation for ex situ analysis of anode and cathode materials and real-time analysis of structural and material changes in lithium-ion batteries.
FTIR analysis is used to perform research or quality control to help optimize lithium battery alternatives (e.g., Li–S, Li–O2, Na-ion), electrolyte formulations, or catalytic systems. The non-destructive nature of FTIR spectroscopy makes this an ideal technique for quickly catching changes that can affect battery life and safety.
Our tools allow the performance of dynamic electrochemical studies; system operation under operando conditions (operating live); catalyst examination under controlled environmental conditions, including temperature and atmosphere; the examination of the behavior of different regions of energy storage cells; and the analysis of gaseous emissions released under overheating/overvoltage or mechanical damage.
See MoreDXR3 Flex Raman Spectrometer
The Thermo Scientific™ DXR3 Flex Raman Spectrometer is a research-grade Raman spectrometer specifically designed for integration with other analytical techniques. Whether you need to complement your materials understanding with chemical identification, correlate chemistry and materials performance, or monitor a process in real time, the DXR3 Flex Raman Spectrometer can help you reach your goals faster.
Nicolet iS50 and iS50R FTIR Spectrometers
The Nicolet iS50 FTIR Spectrometer is dual source-capable, offering a wide range of accessories and flexibility. Designed to be highly flexible, the Nicolet iS50 FTIR Spectrometer can be upgraded from a simple FTIR bench to a fully automated, multi-spectral range system that can acquire spectra from far-infrared to visible.
Nicolet Summit X FTIR Spectrometer
The unique LightDrive Optical Engine and the user-friendly interface of the Thermo Scientific OMNIC Paradigm Software enables programmed applications that streamline data acquisition, processing, and interpretation.
Battery Application Resources
View More Resources →Lithium-ion battery research and development workflow
As battery performance continues to improve, the processes used to develop new materials and devise novel manufacturing methodologies must improve too. This infographic will explore how spectroscopy, microscopy, rheology, and extrusion...
See MoreBattery Value Chain Webinars
Thermo Fisher Scientific offers a broad range of tools and instruments for battery research, control of raw materials, and production of current and advanced battery technology.
Watch NowAnalyzing cathodes, anodes, and electrolytes with Raman spectroscopy
Li-ion batteries continue to improve as energy storage needs increase. However, we are still far from a comprehensive understanding of the chemical reactions that happen within Li-ion batteries. This knowledge gap has caused several high-profile reports of failures, including explosions and fires caused by Li-ion...
Read MoreOur use of plastics in everyday items and manufacturing processes has resulted in a deluge of slowly degradable materials entering our environment and our food chain. As plastics break down into tiny particles (mm diameter) the consequences on human, animal, and ecosystem health need to be studied.
Raman and infrared microscopy can provide the proper identification of a wide range of microplastic particles (1-5000 µm diameter) collected from environmental, industrial, municipal, or consumer-product samples.
Learn about our FTIR and Raman spectroscopy solutions that can help you identify, characterize, and quantify microplastics from a variety of sample sources (bottled water, ocean water, industrial waste streams) without being a spectroscopy expert.
See MoreThe DXR3 Raman family brings Raman analysis at the speed researchers need with advanced imaging capabilities like particle analysis, 3D visualization software and improved stability with automatic x-axis calibration. Expanded offerings of lasers and cameras improve application flexibility.
With the DXR3 Family of Raman instruments, you can use Raman spectroscopy, microscopy, and imaging that quickly creates research-grade images giving viewers instant information on the chemical, structural and elemental characteristics of their sample. Ideal for researchers in pharmaceutical, polymer/chemical, academia, microplastics and other material science applications.
Thermo Scientific DXR3xi Raman Imaging Microscope
The Thermo Scientific DXR3xi Raman Imaging Microscope offers the analytical power to discern microplastics from other contaminants with high-spatial resolution down to 0.5 µm.
Nicolet RaptIR FTIR Microscope
In analytical labs where details matter most—when productivity is measured in microns and minutes—turn to the Thermo Scientific Nicolet RaptIR FTIR Microscope, a research-grade microscope suitable for users of all experience levels.
Nicolet iN5 FTIR Microscope
Quickly identify unknown materials and contaminants that may affect product quality with the Thermo Scientific Nicolet iN5 FTIR Microscope, which provides rapid identification with point-and-shoot simplicity.
Nicolet iN10 and IN10 MX Infrared Microscopes
Streamline your infrared microanalysis workflow with the Thermo Scientific Nicolet iN10 Infrared Microscope, a modern, productive, and cost-effective infrared microanalysis solution with a simple, sophisticated design suitable for new and experienced users alike.
Microplastics Application Resources
Simplify microplastics testing and accelerate your research
As the world leader in serving science it’s our mission to enable customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer; which means providing education and consultation to customers looking to identify and analyze microplastics...
Read MoreDeep dive into microplastics
This eBook thoroughly explores microplastic pollution and demonstrates the impact of innovative vibrational microspectroscopy techniques on this field of research.
Read MoreManipulating the molecular structure of polymers leads to new plastics that perform better in daily life. Our analytical solutions help customers drive innovation and productivity in polymer analysis; encompassing the design, characterization, and lab-to-production scale of polymeric materials across many industries.
For more than 50 years, the Nicolet brand has been synonymous with leading infrared spectroscopy technologies to enable accurate chemical characterization of materials. This expertise has since expanded to other analytical techniques such as Raman to provide labs with a complete analytical solution for their polymeric materials.
See MoreCharacterize the composition of polymer and chemical systems from development of new materials to root cause analysis of product failure.
Understand what chemical properties you need to control when designing new materials with advanced features.
Catch changes in additive formulations, degradation of multi-layer polymer composites, weakened packaging materials, and the effects of process curing times on polymer specifications.
Our analytical instruments and software products allow you to streamline your analysis and optimize your plant production.
Nicolet iS50 and iS50R FTIR Spectrometers
Solve analytical challenges with ease using the Thermo Scientific Nicolet iS50 FTIR Spectrometer, featuring purpose-built accessories and integrated software—making it an all-in-one materials analysis workstation.
Thermo Scientific Antaris II FT-NIR Analyzer
DXR3 Flex Raman Spectrometer
The Thermo Scientific™ DXR3 Flex Raman Spectrometer is a research-grade Raman spectrometer specifically designed for integration with other analytical techniques. Whether you need to complement your materials understanding with chemical identification, correlate chemistry and materials performance, or monitor a process in real time, the DXR3 Flex Raman Spectrometer can help you reach your goals faster.
Polymer Application Resources
View More Resources →Chemical Analysis of Polymers
Our analytical solutions help customers drive innovation and productivity in polymer analysis; encompassing the design, characterization and lab-to-production scale of polymeric materials across many industries. For more than...
Read MoreWhether you need to screen and confirm known compounds, identify unknowns, or advance forensic research, we offer a solution to meet your current and future needs.
Forensic Toxicology
Make complete and confident identification of seized materials and trace evidence from narcotics to paint chips.
Suspicious documents
High-profile courts cases—from securities fraud to murder investigations—often hinge upon suspicious documents, requiring comparison between inks or reference databases.
Trace evidence detection
Most materials analyses require multi-dimensional analysis to provide the full picture. Using a combination of FTIR microscopes and FTIR spectrometers can identify materials such as, paint, glass, fibers, and tapes.
Thermo Scientific Nicolet iS50 and iS50R FTIR Spectrometers
The Nicolet iS50 FTIR Spectrometer is dual source-capable, offering a wide range of accessories offers the flexibility you need to target your analysis. Designed to be highly flexible, the Nicolet iS50 FTIR Spectrometer can be upgraded from a simple FTIR bench to a fully automated, multi-spectral range system that can acquire spectra from far-infrared to visible.
Thermo Scientific Nicolet iS50R Research FTIR Spectrometers is designed for advanced spectroscopic studies with unmatched flexibility and performance.
Thermo Scientific™ DXR3xi Raman Imaging Microscope
The DXR3xi Raman Imaging Microscope achieves faster data visualization with enhanced software, making it possible to use advanced particle analysis to quickly identify and analyze tiny contaminants in your sample.
3D confocal imaging provides non-destructive, non-invasive 3D investigation imaging for chemical and molecular compounds, while Terrain Mapping characterizes uneven sample surfaces and collects in-focus Raman images with ease.
Nicolet iN10 and IN10 MX Infrared Microscopes
Streamline your infrared microanalysis workflow with the Thermo Scientific Nicolet iN10 Infrared Microscope, a modern, productive, and cost-effective infrared microanalysis solution with a simple, sophisticated design suitable for new and experienced users alike.
Nicolet RaptIR FTIR Microscope
In analytical labs where details matter most—when productivity is measured in microns and minutes—turn to the Thermo Scientific Nicolet RaptIR FTIR Microscope, a research-grade microscope suitable for users of all experience levels.
Forensic Application Resources
View More Resources →On demand webinars: Forensics webinars on FTIR and Raman spectroscopy
FTIR and Raman spectroscopy are well-established techniques that support law enforcement and criminal justice efforts, ensuring that data can be trusted and verdicts stick.
Watch NowWebinar: How to Analyze 12 Different Forensic Samples
In this 35-minute webinar we’ll review 12 forensic case analyses and the techniques used to move them from investigate to solved. Sample types include everything from hair to drugs to explosives. This webinar also...
Watch NowEnsuring quality and safety in foods and beverages requires continuous vigilance to ensure that all surfaces the food contacts throughout production are inert, non-toxic, and scrupulously clean.
It is essential to identify unexpected components to determine if they are contaminants requiring elimination or acceptable byproducts of the food production process. Infrared spectroscopy can provide rapid analysis throughout the process.
For all beverages, the compositional quality and safety must be monitored throughout production. Using best practices for quality control, you can not only ensure the integrity and safety of all raw ingredients, process intermediates, and the final product, but will also be able to track contamination, minimize adulteration, and confirm product consistency.
See MoreThermo Scientific Antaris II FT-NIR Analyzer
Fourier transform near-infrared (FT-NIR) spectroscopy is a simple, relatively fast, reproducible method to analyze powders and liquids directly and non-destructively. The Thermo Scientific Antaris II FT-NIR Analyzer can be used for method development, at-line quality control, and in-line monitoring and control tool. This helps:
Thermo Scientific Nicolet Summit OA FTIR Spectrometer
Food Application Resources
Spectroscopy, Rheology, and Extrusion Resources for Food Development and Testing
Food and beverage development resources that introduce relevant technologies and solutions to help improve quality and assist with research and development.
Read MoreExplore Beverage testing and Spectroscopy Analysis Application Notes
For all beverages, the compositional quality and safety must be monitored throughout production. Using best practices for quality control, you can not only ensure the integrity and safety of all raw ingredients, process...
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