horiba FluoroMax-3, Operation Manual

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FluoroMax-3 v. 3.1 (6 Mar 2006) Automated Polarizers
10-6
Note:
The polarization ratio can be lowered by using concentrated
scatterer. Use only a slight amount of scatterer to align the system.
Warning:
Refer to your Material Safety Data Sheets
(MSDS) for hazards regarding the use of glycogen,
colloidal silica, or other scatterers.
Alignment
Checking polarizer alignment
Polarizer alignment is verified by measuring the anisotropy of a dilute scattering solu-
tion. Scattered light is highly polarized, and this allows a simple check of the crystal
alignment in the instrument. We recommend using a very dilute solution of glycogen or
LUDOX
®
(colloidal silica) as the scattering sample.
The alignment test may be a measurement of the polarization or anisotropy within the
software using the
Anisotropy scan-type, or use of the Remeasure Anisotropy Only
utility (click Advanced... , and the Polarizer Alignment window opens). The test also
may be performed manually using the Real Time Control application. One measures the
polarization, anisotropy, or the polarization ratio of scattered light (typically, the excita-
tion and emission monochromators are both set to 400 nm for the measurement). To
calculate the
polarization ratio , use the definition:
polarization ratio VV HH
VH HV
=
∗
∗
I I
I I
(9)
Alignment is satisfactory when the polarization ratio
≥ 100, or P ≥ 0.98, or < r > ≥ 0.97.
The check below assumes a sample of LUDOX
®
or glycogen is used.
1
Go to the Real Time Control .
2
Place the scatterer in the sample-cuvette posi-
tion.
3
Place the sample-compartment cover on the
sample compartment.
4
Set all monochromators to 400 nm.
5
Set all slits to 0.5 mm.