This work presents the applications of the method of the disappearing diffraction pattern for refractometric measurements and analysis of scattering media. The behavior of the refractive indices of different aqueous dispersions containing metal and polymer particles is studied theoretically and experimentally. Both metallic and latex solutions exhibit linear dependence of the refractive index on the concentration of particles. Values of the specific refractive index increment dn/dc for Co, Fe and Ag nano-dispersions are calculated. Poly(2-ethylhexyl) acrylate and poly(vinyl acetate) latexes with size of particles between 50 and 1300 nm and concentration up to the maximum possible are systematically studied with respect to the properties of the particles-concentration, diameter and refractive index. Empirical relationships are derived for the investigated latexes, describing the dependence of the refractive index of latexes on their properties and on the light wavelength. Such approach could be used to solve the inverse problem of calculating the concentration or the size of particles, measuring the refractive index. It is shown that the refractometry provides a simple, easy and accurate way to study and analyze properties of dense nano- and micro-dispersions.
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