Resonance Raman Spectroscopy as a Tool for the Detection and Identification of Pollutants in Water

The use of resonance Raman spectroscopy in water pollution is reviewed. After a short introduction to the technique, the results obtained with this method are illustrated with examples of coloured compounds (such as fabric dyes and food dyes) and non-coloured compounds (such as phenolic compounds and nitrobenzene pesticides). Attention is given to detection limits in distilled and natural water, to identification capabilities and to quantitative determinations. The major advantages are indicated and the problem of interferences due to fluorescence and its reduction are shortly discussed.