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Characterization and Identification of Biogenic Minerals from Different Growing Environments Using Infrared and Raman
Kohei Tamura1, Motohiro Tsuboi2, Ken-Ichi Akao1
1Applicative Solution Lab Division, JASCO Corporation, 2967-5 Ishikawa-machi, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-8537, Japan.
Applied Spectroscopy
|December 18, 2025
Summary
Infrared and Raman spectroscopy can distinguish shellfish shells based on their water content and crystal structure. These techniques, especially in low-frequency regions, help identify mineral origins and habitats.
Area of Science:
- Geochemistry
- Biomineralogy
- Spectroscopy
Background:
- Biogenic minerals, such as shells, exhibit diverse crystal structures and water content influenced by their environment.
- Understanding these variations is crucial for biomineralogy and geochemistry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the crystal structures and water content of various biogenic minerals (shells).
- To differentiate between aragonite forms and identify mineral origins and habitats using spectroscopy.
Main Methods:
- Attenuated total reflection infrared-far-infrared (ATR IR-FIR) and Raman spectroscopy were employed.
- Spectra were analyzed in the mid- and low-frequency regions (4000-50 cm⁻¹ and 2000-50 cm⁻¹).
Main Results:
- Infrared (IR) spectra revealed significant differences in hydrogen bonding related to water content among shellfish species.
- Low-frequency IR and Raman spectra showed distinct lattice vibrational modes, with specific band characteristics (FWHM, side band intensity) varying between mineral types.
- Spectroscopic analysis successfully differentiated biogenic minerals from various origins and growing environments.
Conclusions:
- IR spectroscopy is effective for discriminating shells based on water content and hydrogen bond structure.
- Combined low-frequency IR and Raman spectroscopy provide powerful tools for distinguishing biogenic minerals and characterizing shellfish habitats.
Keywords:
ATR-IR spectroscopyFIRIRInfrared spectroscopyRaman spectroscopyaragoniteattenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopybiogenic mineralscalcitefar-infraredlow-frequency Raman spectroscopyshellfishMore Related Videos
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