Refractive Index Measurement by Using an Optoelectronic Oscillator

摘要

The purpose of this letter is to present a preliminary experiment, showing that an optoelectronic oscillator can be used for measuring refractive index by detecting the change of the oscillation frequency. The uncertainty of the measurement is of about $hbox{10}^{-2}$. However, this value can decrease to $hbox{10}^{-3}$ or less if the mechanic vibrations, the temperature control of liquid, and the long-term stability of the oscillator are improved. Measurements have been performed for acetonitrile, acetone, dioxane, and chloroform at the wavelength of 1535 nm and at 25 $^{circ}hbox{C}$ approximately.