Refractometers

Refractometers and Polarimeters

Instruments designed to measure a sample's refractive index or polarization of light.

Typical uses for refractometers:

  • Laboratory medicine: Used to measure total proteins in blood samples and specific gravity in urine samples
  • Gemology: Used to identify gems
  • Aquariums: Measure water salinity and specific gravity
  • Industry: Measure coolant concentrations
  • Homebrewing: Measure fermentable sugars that will be converted to alcohol