Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the proper use, handling, and maintenance of the SUNLAB Q-214 Fused Quartz Fluorescence Cuvette. Designed for laboratory use, this cuvette is suitable for various spectroscopic applications, including spectrophotometry, fluorometry, tintometry, colorimetry, polarimetry, and other laser applications. Its high-purity quartz construction ensures chemical resistance and high transparency across UV and visible light spectra.
Image Description: The product packaging for the LABSOUL Q-214 Fused Quartz Cuvette. The box indicates "For Laboratory use" and lists specifications such as volume (3.5ml), path length (10mm), and dimensions (45x12.5x12.5mm). A certificate of conformity is also visible, indicating quality assurance.
Product Features
- Material: High-purity Fused Quartz, ensuring excellent UV and visible light transmission.
- Design: Four polished windows for optimal light transmission, with a round bottom.
- Stopper: Equipped with a Teflon stopper for secure sealing and chemical resistance.
- Volume: 3.5 ml capacity.
- Path Length: 10 mm.
- Dimensions: 45mm (height) x 12.5mm (width) x 12.5mm (depth).
- Applications: Suitable for spectrophotometry, fluorometry, tintometry, colorimetry, polarimetry, and other laser applications.
Image Description: Two SUNLAB Q-214 Fused Quartz Cuvettes are shown inside a protective black case, each with a Teflon stopper. A transmission certificate is visible, indicating the percentage transmission at various wavelengths (200nm, 220nm, 240nm).
Setup and Preparation
- Unpacking: Carefully remove the cuvette from its protective packaging. Inspect for any visible damage.
- Initial Cleaning: Before first use, clean the cuvette thoroughly. Use a mild detergent solution specifically designed for laboratory glassware, followed by rinsing with deionized water. Avoid abrasive materials.
- Drying: Allow the cuvette to air dry or use a lint-free cloth to gently dry the exterior. Ensure no fibers remain on the optical surfaces.
- Handling: Always handle the cuvette by its frosted sides to prevent fingerprints or oils from contaminating the polished optical surfaces. Fingerprints can interfere with light transmission and affect measurement accuracy.
Operating Instructions
The Q-214 Fused Quartz Fluorescence Cuvette is designed for precise measurements in various analytical instruments.
General Usage
- Sample Filling: Fill the cuvette with your sample solution, ensuring the liquid level is above the light path but below the top edge to prevent spillage. The 3.5ml volume is designed for optimal performance.
- Sealing: If required, securely insert the Teflon stopper to prevent evaporation or contamination.
- Placement in Instrument: Carefully place the cuvette into the spectrophotometer, fluorometer, or other analytical instrument. Ensure the polished optical windows are aligned correctly with the instrument's light path.
- Measurement: Follow the specific operating procedures of your analytical instrument to perform measurements.
- Removal: After measurement, carefully remove the cuvette, holding it by the frosted sides.
Image Description: A gloved hand is shown carefully placing a cuvette, containing a yellow liquid sample, into the sample compartment of a laboratory spectrophotometer. This illustrates the proper handling and placement of the cuvette during operation.
Applications
This cuvette is suitable for a wide range of laboratory applications:
- Spectrophotometry: Enables precise measurement of light absorbance and transmission in samples.
- DNA/RNA Analysis: Facilitates accurate quantification and purity assessment in nucleic acid studies.
- Chemical Kinetics: Used to monitor reaction rates and mechanisms by measuring changes in absorbance over time.
- Protein Quantification: Essential for determining protein concentration in biological and biochemical assays through absorbance measurements.
- UV-Visible (UV-Vis) Spectroscopy: For measurements in the ultraviolet and visible regions.
- Fluorescence Spectroscopy: Ideal for fluorescence measurements due to its four transparent sides.
- Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy: Can be used for specific FTIR applications.
- Biomedical Research: Broad utility in various biomedical analytical procedures.
Image Description: An infographic titled "QUARTZ CUVETTE APPLICATIONS" illustrating various uses. These include Spectrophotometry, DNA/RNA Analysis, Chemical Kinetics, and Protein Quantification, each with a brief description of its relevance to cuvette use.
Image Description: An infographic titled "QUARTZ CUVETTE USES" displaying four hexagonal icons representing different applications: UV-Visible (UV-Vis) Spectroscopy, Fluorescence Spectroscopy, Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy, and Biomedical Research.
Maintenance and Care
- Cleaning After Use: Immediately after use, empty the cuvette and rinse it thoroughly with an appropriate solvent (e.g., deionized water, ethanol, or specific cleaning solutions depending on the sample).
- Deep Cleaning: For stubborn residues, a mild acid (e.g., 10% HCl) or a specialized cuvette cleaning solution can be used. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning agents. Rinse extensively with deionized water afterwards.
- Drying: Air dry the cuvette in a dust-free environment or use a gentle stream of clean, dry air or nitrogen. Avoid wiping the optical surfaces with anything other than specialized lint-free optical wipes.
- Storage: Store the clean, dry cuvette in its protective case or a dedicated cuvette rack to prevent scratches and contamination. Keep it away from dust and direct sunlight.
- Avoid Extreme Shock: As indicated on the packaging, avoid extreme shock or dropping the cuvette, as this can result in product failure.
Image Description: A side view of the LABSOUL cuvette packaging. Text on the side reads "SAFETY IS PART OF SCIENCE" and includes a warning: "Avoid shock while transporting and handling the box. Extreme shock such as dropping the box can result in product failure." This emphasizes the importance of careful handling.
Troubleshooting
- Inaccurate Readings:
- Cause: Fingerprints, dust, or residue on optical surfaces.
- Solution: Clean the cuvette thoroughly using appropriate methods. Always handle by frosted sides.
- Bubbles in Sample:
- Cause: Improper sample filling or air trapped during stopper insertion.
- Solution: Gently tap the cuvette to dislodge bubbles or refill the sample carefully.
- Sample Evaporation/Contamination:
- Cause: Loose stopper or prolonged exposure to air.
- Solution: Ensure the Teflon stopper is securely seated when not in use.
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | SUNLAB |
| Model Number | Q-214-QUARTZ CELL-09 |
| Material | Fused Quartz |
| Path Length | 10 mm |
| Volume | 3.5 ml |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 45mm x 12.5mm x 12.5mm |
| Windows | Four Polished Windows |
| Stopper Type | Teflon Stopper |
| Bottom Type | Round Bottom |
| ASIN | B0DVC8HWC1 |
| Date First Available | 29 January 2025 |
Warranty and Support
For information regarding product warranty, returns, or technical support, please contact your vendor or the manufacturer, SUNLAB. Refer to your purchase documentation for specific warranty terms and contact details.
Manufacturer: LABTRON
Item part number: Q-214-QUARTZ CELL-09
