NIR Water Content Detection in DMSO Solvents

The patent replaces complex mechanical titration systems with a simplified optical detection system using near-infrared spectroscopy. The NIR spectrometer detects water content through optical absorption measurements, eliminating the need for chemical reagents and mechanical titration apparatus while maintaining measurement accuracy.

The patent uses optical absorption spectra as a copy or representation of water content information. Instead of directly measuring water through chemical reaction, the system measures the optical fingerprint (absorption spectrum) that corresponds to water presence, providing an indirect but accurate measurement method.

The patent modifies the operational parameters of the NIR system by using fixed wavelength measurements at specific absorption peaks (1450 nm and 1900 nm) rather than full spectral scanning. This parameter simplification enables faster measurements and easier integration into automated workflows while maintaining accuracy.

The patent performs preliminary calibration by measuring absorbance of pure DMSO and storing this baseline value. This preliminary action allows subsequent measurements to be calculated by simple subtraction, eliminating the need for complex real-time calibration procedures and facilitating automated operation.

The patent employs inexpensive NIR light sources (LEDs or laser diodes) and simple photodetectors instead of expensive grating-based spectrometers. While the measurement method is spectroscopic, the implementation uses low-cost components that can be easily manufactured and replaced, significantly reducing system cost.

The patent extracts only the essential functional elements needed for water content measurement from a full spectrometer system. By isolating the specific wavelength detection capability (using filters or direct LED emission at 1450 nm and 1900 nm) and removing unnecessary spectral scanning components, the system achieves accurate measurement at lower cost.

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where water content is periodically monitored in the working copy using the NIR measurement system. When water content exceeds a threshold, the system alerts researchers to refresh or replace the solution, enabling proactive management of contamination while maintaining high productivity.

The patent enables the working copy to self-report its water content status through automated NIR measurements. The solution's own optical properties are used to detect water contamination, eliminating the need for separate testing procedures and allowing continuous monitoring without removing samples from storage.