Synthetic Fluorescent Mineral Experiment: Ruby Foam - UVa

FOV: 6" wide.

 

This experiment was an attempt to recreate the fluorescence of chromium activated corundum (aka 'ruby'). Aluminum hydroxide was mixed with 1-4 drops of Cr(III) oxide in a basic solution. This was placed on a small amount of aluminum sulfate in an aluminum foil container and a bit of water was added.

 

The sample was then heated, first with a propane torch until the water was removed and then with a MAPP gas torch until the aluminum sulfate expanded into foam, trapping the aluminum hydroxide which was calcined into aluminum oxide by the torch's flame. (at least that was the plan)

 

Shown also is a natural ruby from Mysore, India.

 

See ruby excitation spectrum here (0.03% Cr):

www.northropgrumman.com/BusinessVentures/SYNOPTICS/Produc...

 

Contains:

Ruby (FL Red >GR,BL/UVa)

Ruby Foam (FL Red >GR,BL/UVabc)

 

Shown under UVa light.

 

Key:

WL = White light (halogen + LED)

FL = Fluoresces

PHOS = Phosphorescent

BL = 450nm, GR = 532nm

UVa = 368nm (LW), UVb = 311nm (MW), UVc = 254nm (SW)

'>' = "stimulated by:", '!' = "bright", '~' = "dim"

 

Ruby2

24 Dec 2016

 

 

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Photostream best viewed in Lightbox mode (in the dark).

 

18 Watt Triple Output UV lamp from Polman Minerals - Way Too Cool UV lamps

Done