Reducing intensity of xenon lamp

In summary, the person is using a bright Xenon continuous arc lamp with a spectrometer for an absorption experiment, but the lamp is too bright and saturating the spectrometer. They are looking for a standard way to reduce the intensity of the lamp, possibly using mirrors or filters. The recommended solution is to use a neutral density filter, preferably absorptive, with a size of 1" or 2". These filters can be found at companies such as Newport, Melles Griot, or Thorlabs. A link to Newport's selection of absorptive neutral density filters is provided.
  • #1
riclambo
7
0
Hello Forum,
An optics question here. I'm using a Xenon continuous arc lamp as a source of broadband light together with a spectrometer for an absorption experiment. However the lamp is too bright and is saturating the spectrometer. Is there a standard way to reduce the intensity of the lamp, using a mirrors and/or filters? The situation is complicated by the fact that the diameter of the beam from the arc lamp is on the order of a few centimeters and it has to be fed into a fibre optic cable.

Regards,
R
 
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  • #2
I would use a neutral density filter, preferally the absorptive kind, to reduce the beam power. A 1" (2.5 cm) square filter size is pretty standard, but 2" (5 cm) squares are available too.

In the USA you should be able to get them from Newport, Melles Griot, or Thorlabs. Here is a link to Newport:
http://www.newport.com/Absorptive-Neutral-Density-Filters/141138/1033/catalog.aspx
 
Last edited by a moderator:

1. How can the intensity of a xenon lamp be reduced?

The intensity of a xenon lamp can be reduced by adjusting the voltage or current supplied to the lamp, using a neutral density filter, or by changing the distance between the lamp and the target.

2. Why would someone want to reduce the intensity of a xenon lamp?

Reducing the intensity of a xenon lamp can help prevent damage to delicate samples or materials, improve image quality in imaging applications, and extend the lifespan of the lamp.

3. Can the intensity of a xenon lamp be controlled?

Yes, the intensity of a xenon lamp can be controlled by using a dimmer switch or a variable power supply to adjust the voltage or current supplied to the lamp.

4. What is the recommended intensity for a xenon lamp in scientific experiments?

The recommended intensity for a xenon lamp in scientific experiments varies depending on the specific application and the sensitivity of the materials or samples being used. It is important to carefully adjust the intensity to ensure accurate and reliable results.

5. Are there any safety precautions to consider when reducing the intensity of a xenon lamp?

Yes, it is important to wear appropriate protective gear, such as safety glasses, when working with xenon lamps as they emit intense UV light. It is also important to carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions for adjusting the intensity to avoid damaging the lamp or other equipment.

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