Fluorescence
Highly sensitive; for detecting and quantifying biomolecules, studying molecular interactions, and diagnosing diseases. When molecules absorb light, they are excited to a higher energy state. As they return to their ground state, they emit light at a longer wavelength. This emitted light is called fluorescence.
Assembling a Fluorescence System
Typical fluorescence systems consist of:
- A light source and fiber optic cable to bring light to the sample
- A sample holder to position the sample in the light beam
- A modular spectrometer to collect a spectrum of the fluorescence from the sample.
Fluorescence measurements are typically collected perpendicular to the axis where the excitation light strikes the sample. This keeps some of the excitation energy from being measured as fluorescence. Filters can also minimize the excitation light contribution to the fluorescence signal.
Applications with Fluorescence
Fluorescence is a technique where light is generated by the sample. This makes it very sensitive. Small changes in the environment of a fluorescing molecule, can have a large impact on the fluorescence emission spectrum. Fluorescence can also be coupled with electrochemistry to give deeper insight into the sample.
Video Application Note: What is Fluorescence Spectroscopy
Watch this video application note to see a fluorescence system in action. Our discussion will include an overview of some basic principles, a demonstration of taking measurements, and some typical applications.
Understanding the mechanism of a bioassay indicator by fluorescence
Fluorescence spectroelectrochemistry offers researchers a powerful method to follow and control redox reactions. This technique allows the ability to study different processes, such as electron transfer or the presence of intermediate products generated during a chemical reaction.
This Application Note describes how the characteristic fluorescence of Alamar Blue is monitored during electrochemical processes to obtain complete knowledge of this system.
Read more about the powerful combination of these techniques
The Advantages of a Compact, Thermoelectrically-Cooled Fiber Optic Spectrometers
The benefits of a TE-cooled spectrometer in analytical spectroscopy systems are discussed, such as delivering lower system noise over longer integration times, resulting in lower detection limits. See why a cooled detector improves fluorescence measurements.
Fluorescence Solutions
Modular Spectrometers
Browse our collection of spectrometers that can help optimize your Fluorescence measurements.
Modular Spectrometers
Collection Accessories and Light Sources
Browse our collection accessories and light sources that you can pair with your selected module.
Spectroscopy AccessoriesContact Us
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