The analysis of layered structures is highly important in cultural heritage research. Raman
spectroscopy is a well-established molecular technique applied in a broad range of research fields
(e.g. cultural heritage, mineralogy, forensics etc.). The chemical information retrieved during
Raman investigations, typically originates from the surface layer as the laser does not penetrate in
the subsurface. Micro-spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (micro-SORS) is a technique that can
overcome the problem of probing into micrometre-thick turbid layers. By separating the Raman
collection zones (Raman signal) from the laser, it is possible to retrieve molecular information
originating from layers underneath a highly turbid surface. In the current project, the development
of a novel micro-SORS probe will be investigated together with its optimization for non-destructive
in situ studies of thin layered structures. Primarily, fundamental research will be done on mockups
in order to better understand the phenomenon that occurs when different micro-SORS
approaches are used, namely full micro-SORS, defocusing micro-SORS and fibre-optics micro-SORS.
Furthermore, the approaches will be compared to evaluate the techniques towards mobile use.
The acquired knowledge will be helpful towards the creation of a new micro-SORS probe head
together with data processing. The different micro-SORS approaches will be implemented during
the analysis of state-of-the art case studies.