Vibrational spectrum of strychnine: Detection at the nanogram level using a Raman microscope

The complete vibrational spectra of strychnine is reported. Strychnine, a c ompound with medicinal value at the proper dosage, is also a potent toxin a t certain concentration levels. Down to 5 ng of strychnine were detected fr om its spectrum using a microscope attached to a Raman spectrophotometer. T he complete Raman and Fourier transform IR spectra were also recorded for p ositive identification. The prominent vibrational band wavenumbers useful a s a reference source for the identification of strychnine in an emergency s ituation are discussed. The Raman spectra of a bulk sample and of a strychn ine microcrystal are given to facilitate positive identification. The poten tial application of the vibrational analysis of strychnine for forensic dia gnostics is discussed. Copyright (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.