Editorial: Raman Spectroscopy More Topical Than Ever—Insights From ICORS 2024

Abstract

It has been nearly a century since the discovery of the Raman effect, and yet its impact on science, technology, and also society continues to grow at an impressive pace. The 28th International Conference on Raman Spectroscopy (ICORS 2024), held in the historic city of Rome, served as a vibrant testament to the continued evolution and interdisciplinary reach of Raman spectroscopy. From fundamental advances in physics and chemistry to innovative applications in biomedicine, materials science, cultural heritage, and even planetary exploration, the field is more topical and relevant than ever.

The present Special Issue of the Journal of Raman Spectroscopy, entitled “Raman spectroscopy more topical than ever: From physics, chemistry via biomedicine, life science, pharmacy towards mineralogy, arts and even space,” compiles selected contributions from ICORS 2024 participants and reflects the rich diversity and innovation showcased during the conference. With over 19 contributions from leading academic institutions, research centers, and industrial partners worldwide, the issue presents cutting-edge research on experimental and theoretical developments across all major branches of Raman spectroscopy, including resonance Raman, SERS, CARS, SRS, time-domain Raman, and computational approaches.

To provide clarity and thematic orientation, the contributions in this issue are grouped and briefly introduced below.

This section includes works applying Raman spectroscopy to complex biological matrices. Plitzko et al. [1] present a hydrolyzation-free characterization method for acetalated dextran using 2D correlated Raman spectroscopy, offering a robust route for analyzing drug delivery materials. Punzalan et al. [2] explore how pulsed electric field-assisted extraction impacts flaxseed protein composition and structure, revealed through Raman spectroscopy and multivariate analysis. Travkina et al. [3] investigate the hair cuticle structure with polarized Raman experiments, focusing on protein secondary and tertiary structures. Warren et al. [4] study the biomimetic cation–π interactions, elucidating weak chemical interactions via vibrational signatures. Demenshin et al. [5] introduce plasmonic tags based on gold nanorods for Raman-based cell imaging. Karnachoriti et al. [6] report the real-time monitoring of nutrient profiles in microalgae cultures using Raman, enabling optimization of biotechnological cultivation. Finally, Rensonnet et al. [7] use the Raman to quantify acidity in ionic liquids through Hammett acidity functions, showcasing applications in chemical process environments.

Several contributions focus on advanced materials and SERS substrate development. Mercedi et al. [8] propose a robust methodology to determine SERS enhancement factors for colloidal and solid supports. Pavelka et al. [9] fabricate the high-performance SERS substrates via 3D-positioned spark discharges and apply Raman mapping to analyze adenine and its derivatives. Štefková et al. [10] present the green chemistry-based preparation of Ag SERS substrates from cellulose via Tollens' reaction.

Data science and machine learning are integral to modern spectroscopy. Lilek et al. [11] evaluate different validation strategies for Raman-related machine learning models, providing benchmarks for spectral classification tasks. Georgiev et al. [12] introduce an open-source platform for harmonizing Raman data, facilitating interoperability and reproducibility.

The power of Raman for noninvasive diagnostics is demonstrated in cultural heritage studies. Ciofini et al. [13] optimize the thermal parameters for safe Raman analysis of wall paintings applied to Lorenzetti's masterpiece. Rousaki et al. [14] conduct the in situ Raman mapping of paintings in Athens' National Gallery, demonstrating how portable Raman tools can be used for conservation diagnostics.

Exploring new frontiers, Vitkova et al. [15] describe a photoactivated SERS approach to detect biosignatures on icy worlds, addressing astrobiological questions. Ha et al. [16] present the time-domain Raman spectroscopy as an emerging tool for planetary missions. [Correction added on 30 August 2025, after first online publication: The incorrect reference from another upcoming Special Issue, GeoRaman 2024, has been removed.]

Finally, several papers advance Raman techniques themselves. Paparo et al. [17] develop the coherent terahertz hyper-Raman spectroscopy, expanding the vibrational spectroscopy landscape. Klement et al. [18] compare the CMOS and CCD detectors for spontaneous and CARS measurements, contributing to hardware optimization. Burde et al. [19] report on electronically preresonant CARS microscopy, pushing the boundaries of label-free imaging.

The articles collected here highlight not only technical excellence but also the increasing societal relevance of Raman-based methods. Contributions range from biomedical imaging and space instrumentation to heritage science, environmental monitoring, and industrial quality control. For example, several papers explore novel SERS substrates for biosensing and diagnostics, while others present advanced CARS and SRS systems for in situ cellular analysis. The application of Raman spectroscopy to art conservation, extraterrestrial mineralogy, and forensic science illustrates its truly interdisciplinary power.

We are particularly proud of the strong international representation in this issue, reflecting the global community that ICORS continues to nurture. It is encouraging to witness the enthusiastic participation of early-career researchers alongside established leaders in the field, ensuring a bright future for Raman science.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all contributing authors for their excellent submissions and timely revisions, as well as to the referees for their invaluable input during the peer review process. Our special thanks go to the editorial team at Wiley for their continued support in making this Special Issue possible.

We hope this issue inspires the broader scientific community and provides a snapshot of where Raman spectroscopy stands in 2024—and where it is headed. If Sir C. V. Raman could witness today's achievements, he would surely be amazed at how far his discovery has traveled—literally, all the way to Mars and beyond.

The author declares no conflicts of interest.