Tips for use of the PASCO Polarimeters (PS-2235 and PS-3237)

Use guidelines for PASCO Polarimeters (PS-2235 and PS-3237)

Best practices suggestions for using the PASCO Polarimeter:

1. Slightly overfill the sample cell if possible before putting on end window.  (Always try to minimize all chemical contact of course).
2. Make at least 15 ml of your standard curve solutions (0.025, 0.50, 0.075, and 0.100 g/ml) as the sample cells hold somewhere between 11 - 12 ml.
3. Tilt cell forward and backward once closed to collect small bubbles on the side or end of glass into central bubble chamber.         
4. Keep the washer on the optical plate facing outside of optical path. Bubble formation easier to control when washers are outward as well.
5. Make sure the optic glass windows (the small glass ‘caps’ on the ends of the sample cells) have been cleaned.
   If using glucose, give solution time to reach equilibria 4 to 6 hours (longer if cooler).

Solutions for use in the Polarimeter

While the cell within the polarimeter is constructed of glass and butyl rubber, the body of the polarimeter is made of ABS. To prevent any leaking solution from damaging the polarimeter, only use solvents that are compatible with ABS plastic. Material-solvent compatibility tables are widely available.

Proper Assembly of the Sample Cell