Fourier-transform Raman spectroscopic study of surface of Norway spruce needles

The potential of Raman spectroscopy and chemometrics for environmental moni toring was investigated. Needles of Norway spruce [Picea abies (L.) Karst.] were studied without any chemical treatment by Fourier-transform Raman spe ctroscopy. Two different forest areas of Czech Republic were chosen. Sample s of twigs were taken in June (1997) and in September (1997). FT-Raman spec tra obtained were analysed by cluster analysis and further chemometric eval uation was performed. The influences of two factors ("sample area", "needle age") were primarily described. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.