Optical transducers based on liquid crystalline phases

Details Optical transducers based on liquid crystalline phases Optical transducers based on liquid crystalline phases

1998-07-28

2000-10-24

Kim, Robert H.

Optics: measuring and testing

By polarized light examination

With birefringent element

356345, G01B 902

Patent

active

061375764

ABSTRACT:
Optical transducers for measuring a contaminant in a gas are disclosed, whereby said contaminant interacts with a liquid crystalline phase as a sensing element in a flow cell. According to the invention nematic crystalline phases on a orientation layer are used. Means are provided to measure or to detect changes of the refractive index of said liquid crystalline phase caused by interaction of said contaminant with said liquid crystalline phase. In preferred embodiments the means for measuring or for detecting the refractive index is a Mach-Zehnder interferometer, a grating coupler, or a device for e.g. visual detection, whereby the flow cell is placed between two linearly polarizing filters, and whereby the two axis of polarization are crossed. Furthermore optical transducers are disclosed, which contain an isotropic dopant in a liquid crystalline phase. Also disclosed is the use of these optical transducers for detecting or measuring contaminants in gases using an optical transducer according to the invention.

REFERENCES:
patent: 4041847 (1977-08-01), Spengler
patent: 5324449 (1994-06-01), Kurmeier et al.
Fresenius J. Anal. Chem. (1994) 350:577-581, F.L:. Dickert et al.
Fresenius J. Anal. Chem. (1997) 357:27-31, F.L. Dickert et al.
"Integrated optical devices with liquid crystal overlays for the sensing of volatile organic compounds", pp. 1-7; B. Drapp et al.
"Characterisation of nematic liquid crystals as sensitive materials on integrated optical devices for the sensing of hydrocarbons", B. Drapp et al.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

Rating

Optical transducers based on liquid crystalline phases does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this patent.

If you have personal experience with Optical transducers based on liquid crystalline phases, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Optical transducers based on liquid crystalline phases will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFUS-PAI-O-1970203