Precise and reliable analysis using laboratory spectrophotometry
Spectrophotometry is an essential analytical technique for measuring the absorbance or transmittance of a substance as a function of a specific wavelength. Used in many industrial sectors, it offers a fast and reliable method for identifying, quantifying, or characterizing chemical compounds in various samples .
Thanks to its sensitivity and precision, spectrophotometry is essential for quality control, research and development of new materials and products.
How does spectrophotometry work?
Spectrophotometry between light and matter. Its principle is based on the absorption or transmission of light by a sample depending on its chemical composition.
- Emission of a light beam – A light source sends radiation onto the sample at one or more specific wavelengths.
- Wavelength separation – A monochromator selects the desired wavelength for analysis.
- Interaction with the sample – Light passes through the sample, where part is absorbed and another part is transmitted.
- Signal measurement – A detector captures the intensity of the transmitted radiation and compares the values with a reference.
- Interpretation of results – Absorbance is analyzed to determine the concentration or nature of the components present in the sample.
Depending on the field of application, several types of spectrophotometry can be used: UV-visible, infrared (IR), fluorescence or atomic absorption spectrophotometry.
Technical characteristics of spectrophotometry
Spectrophotometers vary according to analytical needs, but share essential common characteristics:
- Spectral range : UV (100-400 nm), visible (400-700 nm) and IR (700-2500 nm).
- Light sources : Deuterium lamps for UV, halogen lamps for visible and IR.
- Spectral resolution : Between 0.1 and 5 nm depending on the required accuracy.
- Detectors : Photodiodes, CCD sensors or array detectors for sensitive and precise measurements.
- Analysis methods : Absorbance, transmission, concentration, enzyme kinetics.
- Interpretation software : Intuitive interface for data acquisition and processing, with calibration and quantitative analysis options.
These specifications guarantee reliable and reproducible analysis, adapted to regulatory requirements and industrial protocols.
For which matrices?
Spectrophotometry allows the analysis of a wide variety of solid, liquid and gaseous samples :
Main industrial applications
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Léa Géréec
Technical and scientific expert
