chemical mapping en

Analysis of the distribution of a specific substance over a certain area using a scanning technique that generates a chemical map of the analyzed area. Chemical mapping data is obtained from a sample using an optical microscope coupled to a spectrometer, where a spectrum is obtained at a point. Once the spectrum collection is complete, the sample is moved (typically 5–25 μm) and another spectrum is taken. This is continued until the analytical area has been covered. A mapping system is distinct from an imaging system since it consists of series of spectra at specific spatial point as defined by the instruments' collection parameters, rather than consisting of images as defined by the system field of view.