Apparatus for near-infrared spectrophotometric analysis

摘要

An apparatus is provided for obtaining spectral information and quantifying the physical properties of a sample. The apparatus comprises a light source and a high-efficiency fiber optic switch means communicating with the light source for directing the light alternatively along at least two channels, the two channels comprising at least one reference channel and at least one sample channel. A sample means communicates with the sample channel for providing an interface between the light and the sample. A fiber optic means comprising a high-efficiency fiber optic switch and/or an optical coupler communicates with the sample channels and the reference channels and directs the light alternatively from the reference and sample channels to a mode scrambler. A wavelength discrimination device separates the light from the mode scrambler into component wavelengths and provides spectral information for the determination of the physical properties of the sample. The apparatus of the present invention provides superior chemometric prediction accuracy, is reliable, durable, and stable over time, and provides outstanding performance in a manufacturing or field environment.