Phase contrast microscopes

Phase contrast microscopes are specialized microscopes used to enhance the contrast appearance of transparent, unstained biological specimens. They take advantage of the phase shift that occurs when light passes through a specimen and moves through different parts with different refractive indices.

Traditional bright-field microscopes have difficulty creating contrast in such specimens because the light passes directly through the sample without significant phase shift. Phase contrast microscopes introduce an additional optical system into the light path, consisting of a special phase plate and condenser, which converts the phase difference into brightness variations. This technique increases the phase contrast, making structures in the sample more visible. It makes it possible to observe details that would otherwise be difficult to distinguish. Phase contrast microscopes are especially useful in studying thin, transparent biological specimens such as cell cultures, bacteria, blood cells and tissue monolayers.

The use of phase contrast microscopes requires some expertise in the correct adjustment of the phase plate and condenser, as well as in the interpretation of the images obtained. It is important to calibrate the microscope correctly for the specific application and to take into account the optical properties of the sample.

At Lab-o-Rama we offer a range of high-quality phase contrast microscopes suitable for various research and laboratory applications. Our microscopes are equipped with advanced phase-contrast optics and can be customized to your specific needs. Contact us to learn more about our phase contrast microscopes and how they can improve your research and observations.