Fluorescence Anisotropy Sensor and Its Application to Polymer Processing and Characterization

Published

March 1, 2000

Author(s)

Anthony J. Bur, S C. Roth, C L. Thomas

Abstract

An optical sensor containing polarizing optical components has been constructed for the purpose of monitoring fluorescence anisotropy during polymer processing and for carrying out remote sensing of polymer products doped with fluorescent dyes. The sensor is a compact unit that is used to polarize incident excitation light as well as to analyze the polarization of generated fluorescent light. Optical fibers are used to carry light between the sensor head and the light source and detecting equipment. The anisotropy measurement yields information about the orientation of a fluorescent dye molecule that has been doped into polymer matrix. Fluorescent dyes that have geometrical asymmetry in their molecular structure are used. Experiments are described for which the sensor is positioned in-line during extrusion, during specimen extension, and where the sensor is used to carry out area scans of films and sheets. Measurements were made on polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate and polybutadiene resins that contained a low concentration of fluorescent dye.

Citation

Review of Scientific Instruments

Volume

71

Issue

No. 3

Pub Type

Journals

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Keywords

extensional stress, extrusion, fluorescence, fluorescence anisotropy, optical sensor, polybutadiene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, shear stress

Citation

Bur, A. , Roth, S. and Thomas, C. (2000), Fluorescence Anisotropy Sensor and Its Application to Polymer Processing and Characterization, Review of Scientific Instruments, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=851613 (Accessed November 5, 2025)