- Versatility and accuracy where you need it
- Weighs only 8.2-ounces
- Store up to 100 methods in one unit
- Advanced spectral analysis for DNA, protein, kinetics, and more!
- Sophisticated methods with graphic display
- Programmed GLP verification protocols
- Saves time and space while utilizing just 1 microliter of sample
- Readings in as little as 10 seconds
- Small footprint for even the most space-limited lab
A spectrophotometer is an instrument used to measure the intensity of light passing through a sample due to absorption or excitation. Spectrophotometers are utilized by researchers to determine the absorbance of a sample, ultimately allowing for the determination of color, concentration, or other pertinent information. A wide array of spectrophotometers exist, providing varying wavelength, measurement, and source lamps. The use of spectrophotometers covers just about any industry, from beverage manufacturers to Biochemists. Cole-Parmer is a leading supplier of spectrophotometers including visible, UV visible, atomic absorption, and infrared.
Spectrophotometer Types
Visible Light Spectrophotometers
A visible spectrophotometer is named for its use of visible light (400 to 750nm) produced by the tungsten lamp typically used as its source lamp. Portable and bench-top models with a continuous wavelength range are most commonly used for routine laboratory work. Typical applications include specification measurements for color—ink manufacturing, textiles, and other quality control measurements. Choose from analog and digital models that feature optional data acquisition software for your PC.
UV Visible Spectrophotometers
An UV Visible Spectrophotometer (usually referred to as UV Vis) is named for the two light sources incorporated into the unit, usually deuterium and tungsten. A UV Visible spectrophotometer is typically used for the quantitative determination of a colorless substance in solution, measuring transition metal ions and highly conjugated organic compounds. UV Vis spectrophotometers function within the spectral range of 200 to 750nm. These units measure the intensity of light that passes through the sample and compares it with the intensity of light before it passed through the sample, providing a ratio known as transmittance. UV Visible models are available with a variety of features including scanning, multiple cells, integral printers, and user interfaces.
Infrared Spectrophotometers
An infrared (IR) spectrophotometer measures the interaction of matter with infrared radiation, ultimately providing the researcher with an IR spectrum for the material being measured. This method is especially useful because each molecule has a unique spectrum, with the exception of optical isomers. Therefore, IR spectrophotometers are useful in the determination of unknown organic and inorganic samples.
Fluorescence Spectrophotometers
Fluorescence refers to the property by which some molecules absorb light at a particular wavelength and emit light of a longer wavelength. The intensity of the emitted light is linearly proportional to the concentration. A fluorescence spectrophotometer measures the amount of light emitted by a sample and can provide measurements in ppm or picomolar concentrations. These units provide a quantitative measure of concentration for organic and inorganic compounds that exhibit fluorescence.
Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometers
An atomic absorption (AA) spectrophotometer assists in the determination of metal ion concentration in a sample. In an AA spectrophotometer, a specific hollow cathode lamp is used depending on the metal present in the sample. This lamp produces an emission spectrum and by measuring the amount of energy present at the detector and comparing it to the amount of energy emitted from the lamp allows for the determination of concentration for that metal.
Mercury Analyzing Spectrophotometers
A mercury analyzing spectrophotometer provides analysis of mercury concentration in a sample without the interference of other substances at the same wavelength (254nm). This specialty spectrophotometer is ideal for precise mercury analysis in water samples including drinking, surface, saline, and waste.
| Type | Applications | Typical Light Source(s) | Wavelength | Image |
| Visible Spectrophotometer | Tungsten halogen | 400-750nm | ) |
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| UV Visible (UV Vis) Spectrophotometer | 200-750nm | ) |
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| Infrared Spectrophotometer | Mid-infrared ceramic emitter | 7800 to 375cm-1 | ) |
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| Fluorescence Spectrophotometer | Halogen | 254 to 750nm (excitation range) | ) |
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| Atomic Absorption (AA) Spectrophotometer | Hollow cathode lamp | N/A | ) |
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| Mercury Analyzing Spectrophotometer | 254nm | ) |
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