What makes a polarimeter intelligent? And how does this change the way optical rotation is measured? Dr Nils Bertram, general manager of Anton Paar OptoTec, explains the features behind the intelligence built into Anton Paar's MCP range of polarimeters.
"The MCP polarimeters use intelligent sample cells and quartz plates," explains Dr Bertram. "The wireless Toolmaster technology automatically transfers the sample cell ID and all parameters to the MCP polarimeter. This saves a lot of time, eliminates user errors and makes every change to the instrument 100 % traceable in the audit trail, as specified by 21 CFR Part 11." When changing the cell, checking or adjusting the polarimeter, no data needs to be entered manually. The MCP polarimeter also gives a warning if an operator accidently tries to use an incorrect cell for the set method, a feature that is particularly useful for critical measurements.
To ensure the highest possible traceability of the results and easy instrument handling, MCP polarimeters have the FillingCheck feature. Dr Bertram explains: "Now there is no need to peer into the sample cell to check for bubbles. An inside camera shows a live image of the sample filling on the touchscreen. The operator sees whether there are any filling errors like air bubbles or particles in the sample and the image can also be stored together with the measured result."
MCP's high-quality optical components and electronics provide a resolution of up to 0.0001° OR. To achieve the highest accuracy over the entire measuring range the electronic components are mounted onto a rock-solid aluminium bench. As Nils Bertram explains: "The greatest electronics in the world cannot replace proper mechanical design. With MCP, you can rely on the results, even if the instrument has been moved in the lab or sits on an uneven surface. Plastic is not used for any of the sensitive parts in the inside."
Powerful temperature control using Peltier elements is now standard with all MCP polarimeters. "As temperature is the largest external influencing factor on optical rotation," reports Nils Bertram, "you cannot specify a high accuracy in optical rotation without having the corresponding temperature accuracy. You want to reach the chosen temperature quickly, keep it absolutely stable and avoid any gradients in the sample cell? This is done by Anton Paar's unique Peltier jacket enclosing the sample cell for optimal heat transfer." Using a polarimeter with this technology also makes thermostatic water baths obsolete.
The MCP polarimeters are modular and therefore extremely flexible. From routine determination of optical rotation and specific rotation to concentration measurement, MCP provides the right combination of sample cell and wavelength. "Whatever you want, MCP delivers. Up to six additional wavelengths can be ordered together with the instrument or installed at a later stage, allowing each MCP polarimeter to be customised to suit any application," says Dr Bertram.
The MCP polarimeters fully support the fulfilment of requirements according to 21 CFR, part 11. For customers in the pharmaceutical industry Anton Paar provides a complete qualification and validation documentation package for the MCP polarimeters. As Dr. Bertram explains: "Time is money. With this documentation and a qualification expert from Anton Paar, the polarimeter can be up and running in one to two days."
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