Hellma Half Micro Cuvette 104F-OS, 10 x 4 mm layer thickness
This half micro cuvette is specially designed for demanding fluorescence measurements and other optical analyses. It combines two essential factors in the laboratory and analysis environment: precise measurement accuracy and high durability. Thanks to its special optical glass, it covers a broad spectrum from 320 nm to 2500 nm, opening up a wide range of applications in research and development. Compared to many other cuvettes on the market, its semi-micrometric design offers optimized sample throughput while ensuring minimal sample loss.
Features and special characteristics
This cuvette is made of OS glass (special optical glass) and is capable of reliably detecting even weak signals in a wide range of spectral ranges. The PTFE hinged lid design facilitates secure closure and effectively protects the sample from contamination. If required, a polished bottom can also be requested to further optimize demanding measurements. Key features include:
• Layer thickness 10 x 4 mm for optimized optical paths
• Volume of 1400 µl for flexible sample collection
• External dimensions of 45 x 12.5 x 12.5 mm for space-saving use
• Color coding "OS" for optical special glass (320 nm – 2500 nm)
• PTFE hinged lid for secure closure
• Four optical windows for a variety of measurement methods
• 1.25 mm base thickness for increased stability
The combination of compact format and robust special glass makes them ideal for a wide range of analytical applications. This ensures accurate and reproducible data acquisition, especially for sensitive samples that are only available in limited quantities.
The semi-micro design is particularly recommended for samples with a low concentration of fluorescent or absorbing substances. Thanks to the reduced cuvette dimensions, more intensive interaction between light and sample volume can take place, resulting in an improved detection limit. This increased sensitivity is particularly beneficial for substances such as anthracene or various protein test solutions in biochemistry, as even low concentrations can be measured accurately. The PTFE seal keeps volatile or sensitive samples stable and prevents evaporation during measurement.
The cuvette is also of interest to laboratories that frequently switch between different detection methods. The four optical windows allow light to enter and exit from various angles, which is particularly advantageous for excitation and emission measurements in fluorescence spectroscopy. It is therefore worth considering even complex methods such as FRET (Förster resonance energy transfer) analyses, as the cuvette offers sufficiently high transmission and precision.
Certifications and standards
In many modern laboratories, certifications such as DIN ISO 9001 are essential to ensure consistently high quality standards. The manufacturer attaches great importance to standard-compliant manufacturing and subjects every product to strict quality controls. The special optical glass meets technical requirements that are indispensable in highly sensitive laboratory environments, such as in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or materials research.
Specific application examples
• Analysis of small sample volumes in pharmaceutical research, for example in the development of new active ingredients
• Measuring fluorescent proteins in biochemical laboratories, for example GFP variants or antibody tests
• Examining specific fluorophores (e.g. rhodamine, fluorescein) in environmental analysis
• Precise determination of the optical properties of nanoparticles in materials science
In addition, this cuvette can be used for routine control measurements within a quality assurance laboratory. Its sophisticated design ensures reliable handling and simplifies data exchange with cuvettes used in parallel, as standardized sizes and measurement geometries are maintained.
FAQs
What is the best way to clean this cuvette?
First rinse the cuvette with a suitable solvent or detergent (e.g., ethanol or acetone) and, if possible, use deionized water for final cleaning. Then dry carefully with oil-free compressed air or allow to evaporate in the air.
Can I use the cuvette in the UV range?
The special optical glass is designed for the range from 320 nm to 2500 nm. Measurement in the deep UV range below 320 nm is therefore not recommended. However, it is very well suited for typical UV/Vis use from 320 nm onwards.
What additional accessories are recommended?
A secure cuvette holder suitable for semi-micrometric dimensions is helpful. In addition, it is often worthwhile to have replacement PTFE folded lids available so that you can react quickly in case of wear.
Do I need special software to evaluate my measurements?
Spectroscopic methods usually require a compatible system for reading and analyzing the recorded signals. It is important that the spectrometer and the associated evaluation software can correctly interpret the optical path length of the cuvette.
Can I use aggressive chemicals?
Special optical glass offers good chemical resistance, but in the case of highly corrosive media (e.g., highly concentrated acids), it is always necessary to check the extent to which the glass could be attacked. However, PTFE is a reliable sealing option for numerous solutions.
Conclusion
This cuvette enables high-precision measurements across a wide spectrum. Specially designed for sensitive and low-volume samples, it impresses with its stable material properties, well-thought-out design, and variable application options. The durability of special optical glass in combination with the practical PTFE hinged lid ensures reliable measurement conditions and long-lasting use in the laboratory. If you are looking for a flexible, compact cuvette for fluorescence experiments or other analytical measurements, this is a high-quality solution that has proven itself in demanding workflows.
