On reduction of the drug diflunisal in non-aqueous media

Monatshefte für Chemie - Chemical Monthly - The electrochemical reduction of diflunisal was studied in dimethyl sulfoxide on static mercury drop electrode. Diflunisal yields one irreversible...     

Interferometry with optical pickups

We describe an interferometer that makes use of an optical pickup. This widespread consumer electronics component has a high degree of technological content. A typical head contains a remarkable, highly integrated sample of optoelectronic laboratory equipment. The application that we report is a significant and novel example of the potential exploitation of the unique features of such a device for scientific aims. Many interferometric configurations can be envisaged, depending on the specific pickup design. We present a Fizeau multiphase homodyne interferometer that makes use of an astigmatic-focus-detection pickup. Its quadrant detector provides four photocurrent signals whose phase delays can be easily controlled. This allows us to apply phase-shifting interferometry algorithms for data reduction.     

On-line textile quality control using optical Fourier transforms

Fourier transformation and spatial filtering offer the possibility of detecting structural defects in a fabric. In this paper a method based on an optical Fourier transform technique during the weaving process is described. Significant variations in the Fourier pattern occurring in the presence of defective fabric are recognised with a CCD sensor joined to an electronic hardware system performing a simple algorithm.     

Characterisation of fulgides in a solid matrix as recording materials for optical components

The optical properties of solid samples of polymethyl-methacrylate doped with fulgide photochromic molecules were studied. The transmittance of a thin plate sample was measured when both the activation (UV) and bleaching wavelengths are employed. The samples were used as an optical switch where an UV pulse switches a visible signal beam. The behaviour of these compounds as holographic materials, studied by efficiency measurements at varying grating steps, is reported.     

Holographic implementation of holographic moiré inspection

Implementation of holographic moiré inspection is demonstrated using one hologram to project the reference grating and a further hologram to produce moiré patterns. Well contrasted moiré fringes are obtained. Results of calibration tests are reported and an example of object contouring is presented.