Description

This is a high-grade, specialised optical standard engineered for high-precision applications in microscopy, refractometry, environmental testing, occupational hygiene, and optical manufacturing. As part of the Series E line, this formulation offers tailored optical characteristics and excellent physical stability, making it a reliable standard for immersion work, index-matching, and mineral identification. Formulated specifically for asbestos identification and dispersion staining, this RI liquid allows analysts to quickly differentiate chrysotile asbestos from non-asbestos fibres and matrix components using Polarised Light Microscopy (PLM).

Key Applications

  • Asbestos Fiber Identification & Dispersion Staining: Essential for identifying Chrysotile (white asbestos) under PLM. The liquid matches chrysotile’s refractive index, producing distinct characteristic dispersion colours (typically red-magenta/blue-violet) that allow positive identification.

  • Building Material & Bulk Sample Analysis: Widely used by ISO 17025-accredited labs and certified asbestos analysts (e.g., NVLAP, NIOSH 9002, HSE HSG248 methods) to test insulation, drywall, ceiling tiles, and vinyl products.

  • Geological & Mineralogical PLM: Ideal for Becke line determination and refractive index matching of various silicate minerals and synthetic fibres.

  • Optical Coupling & Research: Provides a stable, uniform optical interface for high-magnification microscopy and material analysis.

  • Polarised Light Microscopy (PLM): Widely used in particle identification, mineral analysis, and Becke line testing for solid samples.

  • Optical Coupling & Index Matching: Reduces reflection losses and light scattering at interfaces between lenses, prisms, optical fibres, and glass components.

  • Gemmology & Mineralogy: Serves as a precise immersion medium to determine refractive indices and evaluate clarity or internal features of gemstones and minerals.

  • Quality Assurance & Forensic Science: Ideal for material identification, solid specimen matching, and chemical analysis in laboratory settings.

Technical Specifications

  • Refractive Index (nD): 1.550 (589.3 nm)

  • Appearance: Clear, colourless to pale liquid

  • Method Compliance: Suitable for standard asbestos testing protocols (NIOSH 9002, OSHA ID-160, EPA 600/R-93/116, HSG248)

  • Packaging Options: Standard 7.4 ml, 30 ml, 120 ml, and 480 ml.

Because this particular RI liquid has a relatively shorter shelf life, we generally keep limited units of the 480 ml format in stock, but we’re always happy to arrange more as and when you when need it.

 

PLEASE NOTE: We highly recommend storing this liquid at temperatures between 4 and 6°C.

Series E 1.500 to 1.550 can spontaneously polymerise, causing the liquid to look cloudy and will eventually begin to gel – this process is irreversible. Storing it at temperatures between 4 and 6°C is the best way to slow down the polymerisation process. If the liquid freezes, it must be allowed to thaw at room temperature before use – DO NOT thaw by placing it in an oven. If the liquid turns cloudy – DO NOT shake. Eventually, most of the cloudiness will sink to the bottom of the bottle, leaving the uncloudy portion still usable with no adverse effect.