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A spectrophotometer detects the composition of substances by passing light through them and comparing before and after wavelength characteristics. Single-beam spectrophotometers have advantages such as a simpler design, wider dynamic range, and greater versatility. They are also less expensive and more reliable than dual-beam devices. Modern devices can determine substances from thousands of reference spectra stored in memory and can be used in various industries and sciences. Regular calibrations and proper equipment maintenance ensure reliable results.
A spectrophotometer is a photometer that detects the composition of substances. It does this by passing light through a substance and comparing the before and after wavelength characteristics. Typically, a single-beam spectrophotometer projects a beam of visible, near-ultraviolet (UV), or near-infrared (IR) light through liquids, solids, and gases to analyze beam absorption and intensity changes. A dual beam device compares the test beam to a second reference beam and is often seen as a simpler and more stable improvement to the technology. The single-beam variety, however, offers some advantages; these include a simpler, more compact design, wider dynamic range, and greater versatility.
Often resembling a desktop printer, the device is used across multiple industries and sciences. In typical spectrophotometers, light emits from a source such as a tungsten filament, light emitting diode, or xenon arc, depending on the required spectral characteristics. The beam hits a grate, where it reflects and scatters in another direction. This passes through an opening and then the substance in question.
An electronic light detector captures the diffracted beam. The light energy is converted into electrical energy and the resulting voltage fluctuations are analyzed on a computer. The computer software then translates the spectral wavelength characteristics. With a single beam spectrophotometer, the resulting spectral characteristics are compared to the initial beam, detecting variations and discrepancies. This allows the equipment to evaluate the composition of the substance.
Usually, a single beam spectrophotometer is sufficient to conduct analyzes of the UV-visible light range. Formulas can be applied to single wavelength selectable absorptions to help calculate and infer compositions. Using a steady or continuous light source, these devices can rely on simple solid-state diode emitters and detectors to apply beams consistently for repeatable processes.
Fewer components mean single beam devices are less expensive to buy or operate. They are less complex, so they can introduce fewer operational inconsistencies. The software helps in analyzing and plotting the resulting graphs; the equipment is able to quickly calculate the absorbency and correct the basic data.
Modern devices can determine substances from thousands of reference spectra stored in memory. The compact equipment can be more easily transported for use in the field and for on-site applications, such as monitoring CO2 concentrations in greenhouses. Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, single-beam spectrophotometer equipment requires less accuracy than dual-beam types and are not as susceptible to component defects and internal dust buildup. Nor does it go through extra double beam recombination lengths for sensing.
With fewer moving parts to wear out or misalign, the single beam spectrophotometer is designed for greater stability and reliability. Technical innovations and techniques narrow the advantage of twin beam designs over this type. Further developments in electronics and lamp technologies introduce more consistent single-beam readings. Regular calibrations and proper equipment maintenance can ensure that single ray detection of the spectral curve fingerprint of a substance can be reliably achieved.
