For UV and visible light measurements, which material is commonly used for sample cells?

• A. Fused silica
• B. Plastic
• C. Borosilicate Glass
• D. Quartz

Answer: (B)

Light transmission across the full range of interest is essential for accurate UV–Vis measurements. Plastics can be cheap and convenient for visible light, but they typically absorb UV light, introducing errors and background that distort readings. Borosilicate glass also transmits visible light well but blocks much of the UV region, making it unsuitable when UV data are needed. The best choice for measurements that span both UV and visible wavelengths is quartz, specifically fused silica, because it remains highly transparent from deep UV through the visible, and it is chemically stable and resistant to light-induced changes. So for reliable UV–Vis work, cuvettes made of quartz/fused silica are the standard option.