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Study of Biomechanical Features of Normal and Keratoconus Corneas by Brillouin Scattering (CAT#: STEM-ST-0132-YJL)

Introduction

Corneal mechanical strength is critical to withstanding intraocular pressure and maintaining normal shape. In keratoconus, the mechanical stability is compromised, which may lead to progressive morphological changes. Therefore, a noninvasive technique capable of accurately measuring the mechanical properties of the cornea may help us understand the mechanism of keratoconus development and improve detection and intervention in keratoconus.




Principle

From a quantum point of view, Brillouin scattering is an interaction of light photons with acoustic or vibrational quanta (phonons), with magnetic spin waves (magnons), or with other low frequency quasiparticles interacting with light. The interaction consists of an inelastic scattering process in which a phonon or magnon is either created (Stokes process) or annihilated (anti-Stokes process). The energy of the scattered light is slightly changed, that is decreased for a Stokes process and increased for an anti-Stokes process. This shift, known as the Brillouin shift, is equal to the energy of the interacting phonon and magnon and thus Brillouin scattering can be used to measure phonon and magnon energies.

Applications

Brillouin scattering is used to determine acoustic velocities and elastic properties of a number of crystalline solids, glasses, and liquids.

Procedure

1. Sample preparation
2. Measurement by scattering detection instrument
3. Data analysis

Materials

Brillouin scattering measurement system (Brillouin spectrometer)