The International Commission for Uniform Methods of Sugar Analysis (ICUMSA) describes several methods for the colorimetric determination of filtered sugar suspensions at known concentration (Brix value).
The ICUMSA color scale is a critical measure in the sugar industry, used to determine the grade and quality of sugar. It measures the yellowness of sugar, which is directly related to the degree of refining – from dark brown raw sugars to highly refined white sugars. Monitoring ICUMSA color helps ensure consistent product quality and process optimization.
How can ICUMSA color be measured?
ICUMSA methods GS 1/3-7 and GS 2/3-10 can be measured with the Kemtrak DCP007 process photometer. Thanks to the proprietary dichromatic four channel measurement technology, particulates in the process media can be compensated for in real time providing an accurate measure of color without the need for filtration. A primary “absorbing” wavelength accurately measures color changes in the process medium, while a second reference wavelength, which is not absorbed by the process medium, compensates for particulates and/or fouling of the optical windows. ⚗️
ICUMSA recommends the absorption of light at 420nm for white- and light-colored sugars and 560nm for darker sugars. 720nm is recommended for the reference wavelength to measure and compensate for the turbidity of the solution. 🔬
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