Provides wavelength scans over the 1.1 to 2.2 micron range, allowing real-time monitoring of reactions in analytical laboratories and process control applications in many industries
A new short wave infra-red (SWIR) spectrometer from AstraNet Systems features a unique combination of integral microprocessor, memory and custom-designed holographic grating, making it what the company says is the most versatile computer-controlled fibre optic spectrometer available.
The high-performance Astra SWIR instrument provides wavelength scans over the 1.1 to 2.2 micron range, allowing real-time monitoring of reactions in analytical laboratories and process control applications in many industries.
Rather than utilising an off-the-shelf holographic grating, AstraNet's SWIR spectrometer incorporates one specially designed to match the wavelength range and give a flat-field image of optimal size at the array detector.
This results in high linearity, low noise and low stray light.
Very little sample preparation is required and the analytical technique is non-destructive, involving simply measuring a reflectance spectrum.
The resulting versatility and broad range of applications is illustrated by three examples.
Being a highly sensitive detector of moisture, especially at 1950nm, the Astra SWIR is said to be ideal for use in many drying applications, including measuring the moisture content of grain samples and solvents.
In the pharmaceutical industry a key stage of tablet manufacture is the combining of active ingredients with filler compounds.
The instrument is well-suited to monitoring the reflectance spectrum of an active ingredient within the blending machine in real time to show when the constituents are thoroughly mixed.
A third type of use is in radiometry: researching the properties of LEDs by spectrally analysing the wavelengths at which they emit and the intensity of light produced.
With no moving parts the Astra SWIR spectrometer provides high reliability and low cost of ownership, while its small size and integrated power supplies and lamps make for portability and ease of use.
Built-in digital and analogue I/O and USB2 ensure versatile, fast interfacing with on-line control systems.
Intuitive software enables users to begin collecting spectra within minutes of installation and AstraNet also offers customised software to match specific applications.
