Measurements in the ultraviolet/visible region (UV-VIS) cover wavelengths from about 200 nm to 800 nm. The absorption of ultraviolet or visible radiation by a molecule leads to transitions among the electronic energy levels of the molecule. It is ideal for characterizing the optical and electronic properties of various materials such as: films, powders, monolithic solids, and liquids. The near-IR region (NIR) of the electromagnetic spectrum utilizes wavelengths from about 800-2500 nm. The transitions measured in this region are generally related to overtone and combination bands of mid-infrared vibrational modes.

A table explaining the basics of UV-Vis Spectroscopy
Basics of UV-Vis Spectroscopy

The chart found in this highlight describes the basics of UV-Vis Spectroscopy. (Click it to enlarge the image)

Spectrometers

  • Solids, liquids, and powders can be measured with relative ease​
  • Sample size can vary from 2 x 2 mm up to several cm​
  • We can collect data in almost any modality: transmission, diffuse reflection, variable angle specular reflection, and variable angle transmission.

Agilent  - Cary 5000 (180 - 3300nm) - PDF

Location: MRI N-007

Liquid UV-Vis
  • Polystyrene cuvettes 3mL (320 - 780nm)
  • Quartz cuvette 3mL (200 - 2500nm)
150mm Sphere Accessories DRA-2500 - PDF
  • Transmittance, reflectance, absorptance
  • Relative reflectance measurement
  • Sample size: >10mm x 10mm (standard) or >35mm x 35mm (micro)
Universal Measurement Accessory (UMA) - PDF
  • Measure UV-Vis in absolute transmittance, specular reflectance
  • 190 - 2800nm unpolarized
  • 250 - 2500nm S and P polarized light
  • Variable angle without moving the sample
  • Absolute specular reflection at variable angle from 5 - 85o in 0.02o intervals

PerkinElmer - Lambda 950 (180 - 3300nm)

Location: CBEB 217-A

Liquid UV-Vis
  • Polystyrene cuvettes 3mL (320 - 780nm)
  • Quartz cuvette 3mL (200-2500nm)
  • Temperature: -20oC to 100oC
150mm Sphere Accessories (Accessory L6020202)
  • Transmittance, reflectance
  • Relative reflectance measurement
  • Minimum sample size: >10mm x 10mm
Praying Mantis® Diffuse Reflectance - PDF
  • 250 to 3300nm
  • Diffuse reflectance only
  • Sample Size: >3mm diameter solid, powder, paste
Universal Reflection Accessory (Accessory L6020202)
  • Specular reflection
  • Variable incident angle (8 - 65o, 0.5o step)
  • Absolute reflectance measurement
  • Minimum sample size: >3mm x 3mm
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