Digital Handheld Refractometers

There are both manual and digital types of handheld refractometers.

For manual types, the Abbe optical refractometer is the most common. It is an optical device and to perform a measurement, you place the sample on a prism. In general, manual handheld refractometers are limited in their ability to measure a variety of samples, so it is necessary to have several portable refractometers to cover various sample types. Furthermore, they are highly operator dependent and more difficult to adjust. These factors can compromise overall accuracy and repeatability.

Digital handheld refractometers, on the other hand, automatically measure samples using a high-resolution optical sensor, which delivers remarkably accurate results. Due to their simplicity and operator independence, they provide greater repeatability and ease of use.

Several industries benefit from the portability and ease of use of a digital handheld refractometer.

In the food and beverage industry, for example, a digital handheld refractometer can be used to measure the sugar content (Brix) of fruit juices and concentrates, carbonated beverages, jams, confectionaries, and much more. As part of the winemaking process, winemakers also use a digital handheld refractometer to measure the Oechsle of grape must in the lab and on the field.

In the chemical industry, a digital handheld refractometer is used to verify the concentration value of acids, bases, or the presence of organic solvents in inorganic salt (% w/w or v/v). While in the pharmaceutical industry, it is typically used for controlling the purity and concentration of raw materials, semi-finished products, and end products.

These are some of the most common applications of digital handheld refractometers, but you can also find them being used in hospitals and pharmacies; during fragrance, aroma, and essential oil manufacturing; in educational centers; and also for a wide variety of applications in the aviation, automotive, and technology industries.