Cuvetillas

A cuvetilla is a small laboratory vessel used to hold a sample for spectroscopic analysis. It is typically made of transparent material, such as glass, quartz, or plastic, and is designed to allow light to pass through the sample without significant absorption or scattering. Cuvetillas are commonly used in spectrophotometry and colorimetry, where the absorbance or transmittance of a sample is measured at specific wavelengths of light.

The dimensions of a cuvetilla are standardized to ensure reproducible results. A common path length, the distance the light travels through the sample, is 1 centimeter. This allows for consistent calculations of concentration using Beer-Lambert Law. Cuvetillas come in various sizes and shapes, depending on the instrument and the type of analysis being performed. Some cuvetillas are disposable, while others are reusable and require careful cleaning.

The choice of material for a cuvetilla depends on the spectral range being studied. Quartz is preferred for ultraviolet (UV) and visible light analysis because it does not absorb UV radiation. Glass is suitable for visible light measurements. Plastic cuvetillas are less expensive and are often used for routine analyses in the visible range, but they may have lower optical quality and can be susceptible to scratching or chemical degradation. Proper handling and maintenance of cuvetillas are essential to obtain accurate and reliable spectroscopic data.