Nephelometry Principle: What is it and How it Works

Study Notes

What is Nephelometry?

A laboratory technique used to measure the concentration of suspended particles in a fluid
Based on the principle of light scattering by particles

Principles of Nephelometry

When light is shone through a fluid containing particles, the particles scatter the light
The scattered light is detected by a sensor, which measures its intensity
The intensity of scattered light is directly proportional to the concentration of particles

Applications of Nephelometry

Measurement of protein concentrations in biological fluids (e.g., urine, serum)
Detection of bacterial contamination in water and food samples
Monitoring of particle concentrations in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics
Research applications in fields like immunology, microbiology, and biochemistry

Types of Nephelometry

Forward scatter nephelometry: measures scattered light at a small angle (e.g., 10-20°)
Right-angle nephelometry: measures scattered light at a 90° angle
Backscatter nephelometry: measures scattered light at a large angle (e.g., 150-170°)

Advantages of Nephelometry

High sensitivity and accuracy
Rapid results (typically within minutes)
Non-invasive and non-destructive
Simple and relatively inexpensive equipment

Limitations of Nephelometry

Interference from other substances in the fluid can affect accuracy
Calibration required for each specific application
May not be suitable for highly concentrated or highly absorbing samples

Description

Learn about the laboratory technique of nephelometry, its principles, applications, types, advantages, and limitations. Understand how it measures particle concentrations in fluids and its uses in biology, pharmaceuticals, and more.