Raman spectroscopy analysis of new copper-cysteamine photosensitizer

Raman spectroscopy and several microstructure analysis techniques have been used to better characterize recently synthesized copper-cysteamine Cu₃Cl(SR)₂, where R = CH₂CH₂NH₂. Nanoparticles of this new copper-cysteamine have been identified as having potential applications in radiation detection and cancer treatment because of the fact that they can be activated by light, X-rays, ultrasound, and microwave radiation to produce reactive oxygen species. Three samples were grown under different conditions, and their microstructure was examined by using Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray scattering, and X-ray diffraction. The Raman spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared measurements identify numerous Raman active and infrared absorption bonds with wavenumbers ranging from 200 to 3,500 cm⁻¹. Scanning electron microscopy scans show well-faceted crystals varying in size from approximately 10 nm to 4 μm, energy dispersive X-ray scattering measurements identify relative elemental composition (C = 48%, N = 37.5%, S = 5%, Cl = 2.6%, Cu = 7%), X-ray diffraction data show the crystal plane spacing varies from 0.8454 to 0.8616 nm. The microstructure observed for the three samples is consistent with variations in the growth conditions.