Low angle laser light scattering-absolute calibration.

A new method for the calculation of the Rayleigh factor from low angle light scattering measurements is developed. This method does not require a uniform intensity illuminating beam, hence efficiently utilizes all the beam from a focused laser source. Scattering volume is then very small, reducing sample volume and interference from contaminant particles. All the parameters necessary for the calculation of the Rayleigh factor (including the exact dependence on sample refractive index) are measurable, hence absolute calibration is possible. Over-all error is estimated to be less than 2.3% under specified conditions. Measurements are possible at scattering angles as small as 2 degrees obviating the need for angular extrapolations in the determination of molecular weight of most dissolved samples. Rayleigh factors at 22 degrees C, 633 nm, and a scattering angle of 4 degrees for water, methanol, benzene, and toluene, were found to be, respectively, 0.907, 2.56, 12.15, and 13.45 x 10(-6) cm(-1).