Fast and Easy Measurement of Scattering Samples with the Agilent Cary 60 UV-Vis Spectrophotometer

Significance of the Topic

Accurate analysis of light-scattering samples is essential across industries such as materials science, environmental monitoring, and quality control. Traditional transmission measurements often underestimate sample response due to light deviation; diffuse reflectance techniques address this challenge by collecting scattered light efficiently.

Study Objectives and Overview

This application note describes how integrating an internal diffuse reflectance accessory (DRA) with the Agilent Cary 60 UV-Vis spectrophotometer enables fast, reliable measurement of scattering and turbid samples. It outlines accessory setup, measurement modes, and sample handling options.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The Cary 60 UV-Vis DRA employs a 50 mm integrating sphere designed to fit within the instrument’s sample compartment in under five minutes. Port reducers (0° or 8° with 6 mm aperture) selectively include or exclude specular components. A PTFE port cover facilitates total transmission measurements by sealing the reflection port.

Used Instrumentation

• Agilent Cary 60 UV-Vis Spectrophotometer
• Internal Diffuse Reflectance Accessory (50 mm integrating sphere)
• Sample holders: standard clamp, filter holder, thin film holder, 10 mm cuvette holder, powder cell kit
• Port reducers (0°/8°, 6 mm aperture) and PTFE port cover

Key Results and Discussion

Tests on diffuse and specular standards confirmed that the DRA captures both diffuse-only and total reflection/transmission with high accuracy. Applications demonstrated include solar material reflectance profiling, color and gloss measurements, coating quality control, turbidity determination in beverages and water, and characterization of optical films and composites.

Practical Benefits and Applications

• Improved data accuracy for turbid, translucent, and opaque samples
• Wide sample compatibility: solids, films, powders, liquids
• Streamlined QA/QC workflows with rapid accessory installation
• Enhanced color measurement capability when paired with Cary WinUV Color software

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Future enhancements may include larger integrating spheres for extended spectral range, automated sample positioning, and integration with imaging and microscopy techniques. Emerging applications lie in nanoparticle and colloid analysis, in situ environmental monitoring, and high-throughput material screening.

Conclusion

Incorporating the internal DRA into the Cary 60 UV-Vis system delivers a flexible, accurate solution for challenging scattering samples. Its robust design and versatile sample handling support a broad spectrum of research and QA/QC tasks, enhancing laboratory productivity and data reliability.