The UV-VIS spectrophotometer is a fundamental tool in the characterization of chemical and biological compounds. In this blog, we will explore in detail this assay and we will explain to you how it works and for what applications it is more adequate.
What the UV-VIS spectrophotometer is?
UV-VIS spectrophotometer is a key analytical instrument in diverse scientific disciplines and industrial applications, especially in quality topics. Based on electromagnetic radiation absorption in the ultraviolet and visible range, this device allows you to analyse the molecular structure and the concentration of compounds present in liquid and solid samples. Its versatility and precision in the measurement of chemical compounds make it an essential tool in very important fields such as chemistry and pharmacology. By understanding their functioning and applications, researchers can take advantage of their potential to analyse complex samples and obtain crucial data for scientific and technological development.
UV-VIS spectrophotometer Compounds
The main compounds in UV-VIS spectrophotometer equipment are the next:
- Light source: Generally, a deuterium lamp that emits radiation in the ultraviolet range and a tungsten lamp that emits radiation in the visible range. Both lamps provide a stable and consistent source.
- Monochromator: It is in charge of separating the light into different wavelengths. It may consist of a prism or diffraction grating to disperse the light into its individual spectre components.
- Sample cuvette: It can be interchangeable and adequate for both liquid samples and solid samples. For solid samples, special cells or sample supporters that guarantee uniform placement of the sample in the path of the beam of light can be used.
- Detector: It detects the quantity of light transmitted through the sample. It may include sensitive detectors such as photodiodes, photomultipliers or detectors of solid-state. The election of the detector depends on the required sensitivity, the range of wavelengths to measure and the needed precision for specific measures. Each kind of detector has its advantages and limitations in terms of sensitivity, spectral answer and dynamic range, hence it is selected according to the specific needs of the application.
- Electronic and software: It controls de functioning of the spectrophotometer, collects and analyses absorbance data and transmission, and presents the results in an easy-to-understand interface.
What can I obtain with a UV-Vis- Spectrophotometer?
The obtained results in a UV-Vis-Spectrophotometer can change according to the nature of the sample and the specific purpose of the analysis. Some results that can be obtained include:
- Foto_GraficaUAbsorbent spectres: Results will show graphics that show the light absorbance in function of wavelength. These spectres will reveal peaks and valleys that indicate the presence of specific compounds and provide information about the structure and composition of the sample.
- Calibration curves: If a quantitative analysis is performed, the results can include calibration curves that relate the absorbance with the concentration of the sample, which allows the precise determination of the concentration of certain compounds in the sample.
- Characteristic peaks identification: Depending on the sample and its compounds, the results can show characteristic peaks to specific wavelengths, which can help in the identification of certain functional groups or compounds present in the sample.
- Comparations with reference spectres: The results can imply the comparison of the obtained spectres with reference spectres from known compounds, which facilitates the identification and characterization of specific compounds in the analysed sample.
- Absorbance and transmittance values: The results can provide numeric values of absorbance and transmittance to specific wavelengths, which allows a detailed quantitative analysis of the sample in terms of its composition and compound concentration.
What is the UV-Vis Spectrophotometer for?
UV-Vis technology is based on the interaction of light with the material, specifically in the ultraviolet length range and visible inside the electromagnetic spectre. For this, the UV-Vis spectrophotometer is used in a great variety of applications.
Next, we will explain to you some of the applications more important of the UV-Vis spectrophotometer.
- Quantitative and Qualitative analysis of chemical compounds: It allows the precise quantification in liquid solutions and the identification of unknown compounds based on their absorbance spectres.
- Quality control in the chemical and pharmaceutic industry: It is used to guarantee the purity and the concentration of chemical and pharmaceutic products, as well as to verify the consistency and quality of production sets.
- Biochemical research: It helps in the study of chemical reactions, biomolecule interactions and changes in the protein conformation, which is crucial in pharmaceutic and biomedical research.
- Materials characterization: It allows the determination of optic properties of solid materials, such as semiconductors, polymers and composite materials, which is essential in the development of new materials and the manufacture of optic and electronic devices.
- Environmental research: It is used in water analysis, floors and air to the detection of contaminants and toxic substances, which contributes to the monitorization and protection of the environment.
In ATRIA we use this equipment for numerous projects. Here you can see some of them:
- Total polyphenol characterization
- Antioxidant capacity characterization
Advantages of UV-Vis Spectrophotometer
The versatility of the UV-Vis Spectrophotometer gives a whole compression of the chemical composition in fields such as biology and chemistry. Their high sensitivity and precision allow the precise detection of minimum quantities of compounds, while their wide range of wavelength possibilities a detailed analysis in the sample. The speed in obtaining results promotes a higher efficiency in the laboratory. Its no destructive nature facilitates sample reuse, which results beneficial in conservation and cost terms. Its facility of use makes it accessible to a variety of users, from beginners to experts in the field of chemistry and the science of materials.
Do you want us to carry out with our UV-Vis Spectrophotometer for some of your projects? Contact us!
