Abstract
Fourier transform Raman spectroscopy (FT-Raman) was investigated as a simple and rapid method which allows us to determine cyanide and its related compounds in solid and aqueous samples nondestructively and without the need for time-consuming sample preparation.
The Raman spectra of metal cyanides showed clear differences. These differences are adequate for spectral differentiation of the compounds. The spectra also showed significant differences from their related compounds such as cyanates and thiocyanides even in their aqueous solutions. Using the FT-Raman technique, cyanide was reliably detected at to a detection limit of 1mg/ml diluted in water and of 2.5-5mg/ml even in various drinks such as Japanese tea and coffee.
Applying this technique, carbonate was able to be simultaneously determined along with cyanide in both solid and aqueous solution samples. This led to approximate estimation of initial concentration of cyanide in an aqueous solution left in ambiance.
