Handheld Raman + IMS
Complementary
Definitive Identification
Rapid Screening
Handheld Raman spectroscopy and ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) are often compared as competing technologies—but in real-world operations, they are complementary tools serving different purposes. Professional programs use IMS for rapid screening and handheld Raman for definitive chemical identification, ensuring both speed and accuracy in
Handheld Raman spectroscopy and ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) are often compared as competing technologies—but in real-world operations, they are complementary tools serving different purposes. Professional programs use IMS for rapid screening and handheld Raman for definitive chemical identification, ensuring both speed and accuracy in the field.
HandheldRaman.com focuses on the deployment of handheld Raman analyzers, specifically the Serstech Arx mkII, as the confirmation and identification layer in modern detection workflows.
Rapid Screening
Definitive Identification
Rapid Screening
IMS devices are widely used for:
- Initial detection of trace vapors or residues
- High-throughput screening environments
- Alarm-based “presence/absence” indication
Strength: Speed and sensitivity
Limitation: IMS typically cannot definitively identify compounds, is susceptible to false positives, and often requires follow-on analysis.
Definitive Identification
Definitive Identification
Definitive Identification
Handheld Raman spectroscopy provides:
- Molecular-level identification of unknown substances
- Identification through packaging (plastic, glass, bags)
- Library-matched results with clear substance names
Using 785 nm Raman technology, handheld Raman minimizes fluorescence while enabling trace-level identification of narcotics, fentanyl, explosive
Handheld Raman spectroscopy provides:
- Molecular-level identification of unknown substances
- Identification through packaging (plastic, glass, bags)
- Library-matched results with clear substance names
Using 785 nm Raman technology, handheld Raman minimizes fluorescence while enabling trace-level identification of narcotics, fentanyl, explosives, and hazardous materials—without opening containers or exposing operators.
Raman + IMS
Definitive Identification
Definitive Identification
In mature detection programs, IMS answers the question:
“Is something potentially present?”
Handheld Raman answers the critical follow-up:
“Exactly what is it?”
This layered approach:
- Reduces false positives
- Improves evidentiary confidence
- Enhances officer and responder safety
- Supports defensible decision-making