Raman spectroscopy gives very specific material identification by comparing the Raman spectrum obtained with spectra of known materials. It can be used with complementary techniques such as XRF in close range, or VIS-NIR and SWIR reflectance spectral imaging at remote range, for a more comprehensive identification of a material.​

The ISAAC Research Centre has developed a number of mobile Raman spectrometers for both close range and remote operation at large stand-off distances up to 14m.

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Close range Raman spectroscopy extends the working distance of mobile Raman spectroscopy from centimetres up to tens of metres.​ Mobile close range micro Raman spectroscopy operates at distances of a few centimetres at laser wavelengths of 532 nm and 785 nm.

Remote Raman spectroscopy extends the working distance to tens of metres and can be used to conveniently analyse any spot on a monument/object from the ground level without having to move the instrument. Given the non-invasive nature of the technique, it can also be used for mapping a small region remotely (macro-Raman mapping).

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