Abstract: Sensors for detecting and distinguishing metals in a sample comprise phenol group-containing azo dyes, the phenol group having one hydroxy involved in reversible metal ion binding and a second hydroxy alkylated to an optically transparent substrate. The sensors have utility for detecting chromium, calcium, magnesium, copper, mercury, nickel, zinc, cobalt, manganese, cadmium, lead, tin, aluminum, potassium, sodium, or arsenic ions in a sample.

Abstract: Provided herein are dyes for detecting and distinguishing metals in a sample, as well as compositions and methods comprising the same.

Abstract: A system and method of photon trapping spectroscopy to vary the path length of light for use in spectroscopy. The systems and method include a rotating reflector with slits for selectively permitting light to enter and exit into a reflection cavity containing a sample to be analyzed. After entering the cavity, but before exiting, the light is trapped and repeatedly reflects back and forth through a sample, effectively increasing the path length of light through a sample. The effective path length is quickly adjustable by altering the rotation speed of the rotating reflector to alter the time in which the light is trapped within the cavity. The systems and methods provide a spectroscope with a wide dynamic range, low detection limits, and usable with broadband and monochromatic light sources throughout the optical region (ultraviolet to infrared).

Abstract: A system and method of photon trapping spectroscopy to vary the path length of light for use in spectroscopy. The systems and method include a rotating reflector with slits for selectively permitting light to enter and exit into a reflection cavity containing a sample to be analyzed. After entering the cavity, but before exiting, the light is trapped and repeatedly reflects back and forth through a sample, effectively increasing the path length of light through a sample. The effective path length is quickly adjustable by altering the rotation speed of the rotating reflector to alter the time in which the light is trapped within the cavity. The systems and methods provide a spectroscope with a wide dynamic range, low detection limits, and usable with broadband and monochromatic light sources throughout the optical region (ultraviolet to infrared).

Abstract: Linear arrays of chemosensors or chemical compounds are supported by an optical fiber that allows one to rapidly assay the entire array using changes in optical properties such as fluorescence. The location of the agent along the fiber determines the identity of the agent in these linear arrays. Combinatorial libraries may be constructed on the fiber as well as assayed on the optical fiber. A system and method of analyzing the entire array of agents on an optical fiber using a light source, an optical fiber, and a detector are also described. The time delay between the excitation and detection determines the location being assayed along the fiber and therefore the identity of the agent being assayed. The present invention may find uses in the medical, pharmaceutical, environmental, defense, and food industries.