Light source is so small that it opens up completely new applications for spectroscopy, as illustrated by these two examples in the areas of biotechnology and deep sea research
With FiberLight, Heraeus Noblelight says it has developed a light source that is so small that it opens up completely new applications for spectroscopy.
Two examples in the areas of biotechnology and deep sea research highlight the possibilities.
In biotechnology, DNA sequencing is the foundation for genomic research.
The purity of the DNA sample is important for the quality of results.
An absorption measurement prior to the sequencing can ensure this purity.
However, the lab equipment often does not offer enough space for a traditional detector.
This is why FiberLight is used for this application.
The FiberLight light source has a size of only 28mm and a power consumption of 6W, so can it be operated also under restricted space conditions.
At the same time, it offers the complete UV spectrum of a deuterium lamp with an additional light source for the visible spectral range.
With its compact size and low power consumption, FiberLight is also said to be ideally suited for portable and mobile applications.
An example is probes for the long-time monitoring of nitrates, bromides and bisulphides in sea water.
Here, FiberLight is used as a light source for an in-situ spectrophotometer which operates in depths of more than 2000m.
Lithium batteries are used as a power supply.
With its built-in fibre optics connector, FiberLight provides the spectral emission needed for the analysis inside the probe.
At 2000m below sea level, robustness and reliability are especially important.
With FiberLight, they are a result of its unique design: it is a RF excited deuterium lamp without electrodes which is mounted on a circuit board.
FiberLight offers a wide spectral range from 185nm to 1100nm.
Line spectra are also possible.
The lamp module can be easily exchanged and starts operation instantly.
With these characteristics, FiberLight is well suited to opening up new applications for spectroscopy, says Heraeus Noblelight.
With its headquarters in Hanau and with subsidiaries in the USA, Great Britain, and China, the organisation develops, manufactures and markets infrared and ultraviolet emitters for applications in manufacture, industrial process technology, environmental protection, medicine and cosmetics, research and analytical measurement technology.
Heraeus, the global precious metals and technology group, is described as a market and technology leader in the business areas of precious metals, dental health, sensors, quartz glass, and specialty lighting sources.
In 2004, the company generated revenues of 8.3 billion euro, with more than 9800 employees worldwide in over 100 subsidiaries and associated companies.
Founded in 1851, the company's broad product portfolio has made Heraeus relatively independent of developments in individual industrial sectors, it says.
Heraeus proactively targets and fosters the high innovation and development potential within the company.
Heraeus uses customer-oriented product developments and specific acquisitions to expand its leading position in diverse industrial sectors.
