Refractometer by total internal reflection

• Grant number: 12/07203-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: July 01, 2012
• End date: December 31, 2012
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Physics - Condensed Matter Physics
• Principal Investigator: Sérgio Carlos Zilio
• Grantee: José Francisco Miras Domenegueti
• Host Institution: Instituto de Física de São Carlos (IFSC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

A simple, inexpensive, and accurate method for measuring the critical angle in total internal reflection was recently introduced. It can be used for the construction of a differential refractometer able to measure, in real-time, the real and imaginary parts of the complex refractive index of transparent, absorbent, or turbid samples. This work proposes the use of this method to study two problems. First, the student will analyze the feasibility of using this technique to develop a relative humidity sensor, and within the same scope of application, a vacuum monitor. The second study will address the possibility of developing a saccharimeter by precisely measuring the critical angle with the new technique.(AU)