Using Raman spectroscopy to identify spectral features of and detect hydrogen peroxide‐potential application for Mars exploration. (17th August 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ye, Xiaoling; Zhang, Minliang; Wu, Zhongchen; Xu, Ling; Zhang, Lei; Chen, Jiayi
• Other Names: Castro Kepa guestEditor.; Ling Zongcheng guestEditor.
• Is Part Of: Journal of Raman spectroscopy. Volume 53:Number 3(2022)
• Page Start: 356
• Page End: 363
• Publication Date: 2021-08-17
• Subjects: hydrogen peroxide -- low temperature -- Mars exploration -- Raman detection; Raman spectroscopy -- Periodicals; 535.846
• DOI: 10.1002/jrs.6227
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0377-0486

Abstract

Abstract: The Martian surface is oxidizing. An important oxidant, H2 O2 (hydrogen peroxide), has been detected in the Martian atmosphere and is supported even below the Martian surface. H2 O2 is an important target that can be used to better understand the Martian surface environment and explore extraterrestrial life and thus must be accurately detected and analyzed under Martian‐relevant temperature conditions. In this study, the Raman spectral features and the limit of detection (LOD) of H2 O2 were investigated for aqueous solutions and mud mixtures. The low‐temperature spectral features and UV decomposition characteristics of H2 O2 were also investigated because low temperatures and UV radiation are key environmental factors that can affect the existence of H2 O2 on the Martian surface. Our results show that H2 O2 has a remarkable Raman peak at 877 cm −1, which is distinguishable from H2 O and other mixed minerals, making it easy to detect with an LOD of 400 ± 50 ppm in an H2 O2 solution and 1666 ± 450 ppm in a kaolinite matrix (2000 ± 500 ppm in a gypsum matrix). There was no peak shift and only a certain degree of reduction in intensity for this peak in a H2 O2 solution under low temperature, even for frozen H2 O2 . Split peaks at ~228 cm −1 appeared after freezing H2 O2, whereas there was no discernable split in the peak at ~3326 cm −1 below −60°C; however, the H2 O peaks were splitted. The spectral features facilitate the detection and identification of H2 O2 on the Martian surface. In light of the Mars2020 and ExoMars rover missions, our study provides valuable information about the Raman detection of H2 O2 on Mars. Abstract : Raman spectroscopy of H2 O2 –H2 O solutions was measured under simulated Martian environmental conditions. The limit of detection (LOD) and UV decomposition characteristics of H2 O2 were determined for future Mars surface exploration. We found that low temperatures did not affect the identification of H2 O2 in solution (even for frozen H2 O2 ). And H2 O2 consumption of minerals on the Martian surface could provide microorganisms with a sanctuary for survival/reproduction.