DESIGN CONCEPT: PORTABLE SPECTROSCOPY USING OPTICAL LIGHT PROPAGATION FOR RAPID LIQUID-BASED SENSING APPLICATION

Abstract

Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-VIS) spectroscopy is a technique used to measure the intensity of light absorbed after passing through a sample solution. UV-VIS spectroscopy analyses samples using light within the ultraviolet and visible wavelength ranges. Compared to other methods, this technique is non-invasive and less complex. However, current spectrometers are often bulky and not portable. Therefore, the objectives of this research are to design a portable Arduino-based spectroscopy system for liquid-based solutions and to integrate a motorised XY-axis into the proposed system. The spectroscopy setup includes a light source, Arduino, light sensor, stepper motor, gears, and pulleys. The XY-axis table was designed to adjust the optical light position, thereby improving measurement accuracy. Additionally, the dimensions of each component were identified, and the motorised structure of the XY-axis table was designed using 3D modelling. The proposed design is small, with dimensions of 16.5 cm (L) x 14 cm (W) x 13 cm (H). The experiment results on Kelulut honey showed that the average peak wavelength matched market spectroscopy values. The different XY-axis positions improved accuracy, making the system compact, portable, and motorised.