Fourier transform (FT)-Raman spectroscopy has been applied to the online analysis and control of a PCI, reactor. This particular analytical technique was selected from a consideration of the Raman scattering efficiencies of the constituents of the reaction and the ability of the fiberoptic-coupled, near-IR, FT-Raman systems to remotely sample the toxic and potentially hazardous reaction mixture. In this communication we describe the Raman spectra of P4, PCl3, PCl5, and P4 dissolved in PCl3, as well as related compounds, along with relative band intensities of the constituents of the reaction. Factors leading to the optimum FT-Raman configuration for this particular process control problem are discussed in detail.
