Technique detects dangerous additives in whisky
20 May 2013
A new technique for detecting dangerous fake whisky, and other spirits, has been developed by researchers at the University of St Andrews.
Using a laser, the St Andrews scientists carried out detailed analysis of a spirit sample no bigger than a teardrop and can even confirm whether it is toxic or not.
This technique could see portable detectors created which would allow people to test their drinks when out and about.
Writing in the Journal of Raman Spectroscopy, Praveen Ashok, Bavishna Balagopal and Professor Kishan Dholakia of the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University, reveal how they can place a “teardrop” of whisky on a transparent “plastic chip, no bigger than a credit card”.
Light is then delivered to, and collected from, the liquor sample using optical fibres - each has the dimensions of a human hair - to diagnose the sample by a collection of light scattered from it.
Previous work by the team showed they were able to investigate and discriminate single malt Scotch whiskies based on brand, age and even which cask had been used.
The method exploits both the fluorescence of the whisky and also what is known as the Raman signature of the whisky - this is when light scatters but shifts slightly in energy due to interaction with the molecules in the sample.
The latest study now shows this technique is highly sensitive and can be used to detect trace toxic additives such as methanol at concentrations of less than 1 per cent by volume.
Professor Kishan Dholakia added: “This technology not only can ensure a high degree of quality control for the international drinks industry but could also lead to portable sensors to ensure everyone can enjoy a drink, safe in the knowledge that no toxic additives are present.”
The researchers are hoping to interest industry with their technology which is patented.
