UV-VIS Series Accessories

Significance of the Topic

UV–VIS–NIR spectrophotometry is a cornerstone analytical technique across research, quality control, and process monitoring. Choosing the right accessory extends measurement capabilities, improves sensitivity, and adapts the instrument to diverse sample types, from low-volume biochemical assays to large solid materials.

Objectives and Study Overview

This summary reviews Shimadzu’s comprehensive accessory portfolio for UV-VIS series spectrophotometers, illustrating how each component enhances measurement versatility. The goal is to guide users in selecting optimal attachments for applications such as transmittance, specular and diffuse reflectance, micro-volume analysis, temperature-controlled kinetics, automated sampling, and onsite monitoring.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Accessories are grouped by function and sample type:

• Basic Cells and Holders: Quartz square, cylindrical, short-path (1–5 mm), long-path (10–100 mm), micro and super-micro cells with matching holders and masks.
• Filters and Film Holders: Didymium and holmium filters for light source checks; rotating film holders for thin films and polarizer integration.
• Extended Wavelength Detection: Near-infrared PMT (R5108) for 400–1150 nm, InGaAs/PbS detectors in integrating spheres.
• Pathlength Adapters: Spacers for high-absorbance samples; multi-cell holders for long-path measurements.
• Micro-Volume and Multi-Cell: Super-micro cell holders (25–200 µL), MMC-1600 series multi-cell holders (8/16 wells), constant-temperature micro-cells.
• Temperature Control: Constant-temperature single and multi-cell holders (Peltier and water-circulation types), thermoelectric cell positioners (CPS-100), thermostatted four-cell holders, and water circulators (NTT-2200P).
• Automation and Flow Analysis: Sipper units (L, T, C, U-type), syringe sippers (N, CN), ASX/ASC auto-samplers, micro flow-through cells, LC flow cells, solenoid valves and waste units.
• Reflectance and Integrating Spheres: Specular reflectance attachments (5°, 12°, 30°, 45°), absolute reflectance systems (ASR series), integrating sphere attachments (60 mm and 150 mm dia.), sample base plates, polarizers, and variable-angle units.
• Onsite and Fiber-Optic Monitoring: Crossflow cells and optical fiber couplers for in-process monitoring.
• Software Tools: LabSolutions UV-Vis control and data management (standalone, DB, CS), optional modules for color measurement, film thickness, UPF, automatic analysis, Tm analysis, UV validation, and simple control applications.

Key Results and Discussion

The accessory lineup allows users to:

• Match optical pathlength to sample concentration for optimal absorbance.
• Perform accurate reflectance measurements (diffuse, specular, absolute) on solids, powders, films, and rough surfaces using integrating spheres and angle-variable attachments.
• Handle micro-volume assays down to 25 µL and high-throughput multi-sample workflows with thermocontrolled holders for enzymatic kinetics.
• Automate sample introduction for chromatography and batch analysis, reducing variability and operator intervention.
• Validate wavelength accuracy on-site with low-pressure mercury lamps and ensure compliance with pharmacopoeia and instrument performance standards.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Enhanced flexibility: easy switching between cell types, holders, and optical configurations.
• Improved data quality: reduced stray light, controlled temperature, and optimized light paths.
• Increased throughput: multi-cell and automated systems support large sample sets and kinetic studies.
• Broader application scope: from environmental water assays to semiconductor reflectance testing and in-line process monitoring.

Future Trends and Perspectives

Advances likely to further transform UV-VIS spectroscopy include:

• Integration with laboratory information management systems and cloud-based data analytics.
• AI-driven method optimization and accessory recommendation based on sample metadata.
• Miniaturization and modular accessory designs for field-portable and handheld spectrophotometers.
• Expansion into deep-UV and mid-IR regions with new detector materials and optics.

Conclusion

Shimadzu’s UV-VIS accessory portfolio provides tailored solutions for virtually any spectrophotometric challenge. From routine transmittance to advanced reflectance, temperature-controlled kinetics, and automated workflows, the right combination of cells, holders, detectors, and software maximizes instrument potential and analytical reliability.

Reference

Shimadzu UV-VIS Spectrophotometers Accessories brochure (C101-E070M), 2022