Cordouan Arago ∞ Precision Digital Refractometer
| Origin | France |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported Instrument |
| Model | Cordouan Arago ∞ |
| Quotation | Upon Request |
Overview
The Cordouan Arago ∞ is a high-precision, temperature-controlled digital refractometer engineered for absolute accuracy in refractive index (nD) measurement across an unprecedented range of 1.20–3.10. Unlike conventional Abbe-type instruments, the Arago ∞ employs critical-angle detection via total internal reflection at the sample–prism interface, combined with a stabilized 658 nm laser diode and real-time Peltier temperature regulation (15–80 °C). Its optical architecture eliminates Fresnel approximation errors near grazing incidence—enabling reliable measurement of highly absorbing, deeply colored, or volatile samples without dilution or pre-treatment. Designed for compliance-critical environments, it meets fundamental metrological requirements for ISO/IEC 17025 traceability and supports GLP/GMP workflows through full audit trail capability.
Key Features
- Ultra-broad refractive index range: 1.20–3.10 nD, covering low-index hydrocarbons (e.g., cyclohexene) to high-index specialty materials (e.g., molten salts, heavy aromatic solvents)
- Sub-microresolution: ±0.000001 nD resolution with ±0.00001 nD accuracy—validated against NIST-traceable sucrose standards
- Triple-prism option system: BK7 glass (standard), fused silica, and sapphire—each optimized for chemical compatibility, thermal stability, and UV–NIR transmission
- Peltier-controlled sample chamber (15–80 °C, ±0.02 °C stability) with integrated thermal guard housing to minimize ambient drift and evaporation loss
- Automated laser interlock: Beam shuts off during lid opening or abnormal thermal excursion—compliant with IEC 60825-1 Class 1 safety requirements
- Modular sample cell construction: 316 stainless steel or Inconel® 625 alloy variants available for aggressive media (e.g., concentrated HNO3, hot chlorinated solvents)
- Intuitive 7-inch capacitive touchscreen interface with multilingual OS (English/French), plus full remote control via USB 2.0 and native Windows/Linux drivers
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Arago ∞ accommodates viscous, opaque, thermally sensitive, and volatile liquids—including crude oil fractions, essential oils, pharmaceutical intermediates, dark syrups, and molten polymers—without signal attenuation or prism fouling. Its non-contact optical path and smooth, crevice-free sample chamber ensure zero cross-contamination between analyses. All models conform to CE marking directives (2014/30/EU EMC, 2014/35/EU LVD), RoHS 2011/65/EU, and support FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic records when paired with optional validated software modules. Temperature calibration is traceable to ITS-90 via integrated Pt100 sensor (±0.05 °C uncertainty).
Software & Data Management
The included Cordouan RefraSoft™ v4.2 provides instrument control, real-time data visualization, and automated report generation in PDF/XLSX formats. It supports customizable SOP templates, user-level access controls (admin/operator/auditor roles), and full electronic signature functionality. Raw measurement logs include timestamp, operator ID, temperature setpoint, prism ID, and environmental metadata—exportable as CSV for LIMS integration. Optional 21 CFR Part 11 validation package includes IQ/OQ documentation, change control logs, and audit trail review tools compliant with ISO 13485 and EU Annex 11.
Applications
- Petroleum & Petrochemicals: nD determination of naphtha, kerosene, benzene/toluene/xylene (BTX) streams, and synthetic lubricants per ASTM D1218 and IP 170
- Food & Beverage: Brix quantification in fruit juices, honey, jams, soy sauce, and starch hydrolysates—correlated to dry matter content per AOAC 932.12 and ISO 2173
- Pharma & Cosmetics: Identity testing and purity verification of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethanol/water blends, and fragrance oils per USP and Ph. Eur. 2.2.6
- Chemical Manufacturing: In-process monitoring of polymerization reactions, solvent recovery efficiency, and catalyst concentration in batch reactors
- Academic & Materials Research: High-temperature refractive index profiling of ionic liquids, molten salts, and nanofluids under controlled inert atmosphere
FAQ
What is the minimum sample volume required for measurement?
Typical volume is 0.5 mL for standard cells; micro-cell variants reduce this to 0.15 mL.
Can the instrument measure samples above 80 °C?
No—the maximum regulated temperature is 80 °C; for higher-temperature applications, external thermostatic jackets are recommended.
Is calibration verification traceable to national standards?
Yes—factory calibration uses NIST SRM 1582a (sucrose solutions) and certified quartz reference prisms; user recalibration kits include traceable standards.
Does the software support automated pass/fail decision logic based on specification limits?
Yes—RefraSoft™ allows configurable tolerance bands, automatic flagging of out-of-spec results, and configurable email/SMS alerts.
How often does the prism require cleaning or maintenance?
Prism surfaces require cleaning only after each sample using lint-free wipes and spectroscopic-grade isopropanol; no routine recalibration is needed under stable lab conditions.
