Patent ID: 6707542
Filing Date: 2004-03-16
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
A refractometric apparatus for use with fluids comprising:means for defining an optical path; a reticle located along the optical path, the reticle further comprising markings that increase in the direction of increased water content in a fluid; a prism located along the optical path in a spaced relation to the reticle, the prism having a face disposed toward a sample of the fluid, the prism being located to receive light for illuminating the sample of the fluid, whereby a transition between light and darkness is a function of a water content in the fluid; a second prism located along the optical path between the prism and the reticle; and a temperature sensitive means operatively engaging the second prism for pivotal motion of the second prism in response to temperature changes so as to compensate for temperature changes by altering the optical path in response to such changes; whereby the reticle provides a reading relating to the water content of the fluid.