Abstract: A modular accessory for orienting a light path at different angles to an optical axis of a spectrometer is described. The modular accessory includes an attachment module configured to couple to a Raman spectrometer. The attachment module attaches to a base module which includes a visible light imager. An objective module couples to the base module and includes an objective configured to provide an optical path for the sample light beam travelling from a sample along a light path to an objective lens of the objective, through the objective, and to the input for the sample light beam of the base module. The modules can provide tilt and swivel angles to orient the light path at different angles. Portable Raman systems including the modular accessory and a Raman spectrometer are also described as well as methods for using the systems.

Abstract: A sample clamp as well as systems incorporating the sample clamp with a spectrometer and methods of using these systems are described. The sample clamp includes a first jaw connected to a second jaw by a hinge oriented in the direction of a first axis. The sample claim also includes a substantially cylindrical space oriented longitudinally in the direction of the first axis, defined by a first inner surface of the first jaw and a second inner surface of the second jaw, and configured for clamping a cylindrical object therein. Additionally, the sample clamp includes a conduit oriented in the direction of a second axis and optically connecting the cylindrical space to a first outer surface of the first jaw.

Abstract: A product transportation system includes a product input assembly, a product staging assembly, and a product output assembly. The product input assembly includes a first platform and a motorized actuator that form a loading location dimensioned to receive a product. The motorized actuator can drive the product away from the loading location. The product staging assembly is interposed between the product input assembly and the product output assembly and may receive the produce being driven away form the motorized actuator. The product output assembly includes a product presentation device having a second platform and a drive carriage. The second platform may receive the product from the product staging assembly while the drive carriage can translate relative to the product staging assembly to drive the second platform relative to the first platform between a retracted position and an extended position.

Abstract: A dry mix of a calcined oxide of Ca and/or Mg and an acid phosphate and fly ash with or without insulating extenders useful in permafrost conditions. Calcined oxide is present at about 12% to about 40% by weight and the acid phosphate is present at about 35% to about 45% by weight. The fly ash is present at about 10% to about 50% by weight with the fly ash being between about 50% to about 100% class F with the remainder class C. Insulating extenders are present in the range from 0% to about 15% by weight of the combined calcined oxide and acid phosphate and fly ash. 0.1% to about 0.5% boric acid and/or borate by weight of the dry mix is present.