POSSIBLE USE OF RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY AS A TOOL FOR ANALYSIS IN PRODUCTION AND QUALITY CONTROL OF BACANORA

Abstract

The bacanora industry in the state of Sonora, México faces complex arrays of cultural, technological, economic and legal factors that inhibit its development. This happens despite the institutional efforts to create a regulatory framework to eliminate informal methods of preparation that result in liquor of heterogeneous quality. Enforcement of the framework is complicated by poor verification practices of existing rules in the Protected Designation of Origin. This document describes the use of a Fourier Transform Raman spectrometer prototype for qualitatively analyzing samples of bacanora. This measurement technique could assist in production of bacanora that complies with quality standards. This device can be built inexpensively by combining a conventional Michelson interferometer, a in-house designed photon counter, and a reference photo-detector. The advantages of this measurement technique are described; certain implications related to the use of this method in bacanora production are also analyzed from different perspectives. The results of the study confirm that this instrument and technique, due to its low cost in manufacturing and operation, are easily adaptable options to the needs of producers and researchers, and they could assist bacanora production that meets quality standards outlined in regulations.