Recent Trends in Particle Size Analyzers

• Users are working with smaller and smaller particles.

• Customers are demanding equipment that’s reasonably priced and that takes measurements rapidly, with a high degree of resolution and reproducibility.

• Methods based on ultrasound and light scattering have been evolving slowly toward the characterization of ever-smaller particles, well into the nanometer size domain.

• With so many industries now concerned about what happens to particles during manufacture, shipping, storage, and use, shape has taken on new significance. One reason is that nanoscale (and to some degree micronsized) particles behave differently from macroscale materials. Physical forces or moisture can cause particles to clump together. When analyzed by size alone, agglomerates will appear as larger particles, which can cause problems in the manufacturing process.

• Discoveries in nanotechnology and nanomaterials have been driving the development of the ability to characterize ever-smaller particles. The approval of next-generation drugs will depend to a large degree on users’ ability to size and characterize nanoparticles.

Top 6 Questions You Should Ask When Buying a Particle Size Analyzer

1. H ow easy is it to generate reliable data? Think about your users and ask what, if any, specific expertise is required for system set-up and routine use. Then, ask to make a measurement to assess this during the selection process.

2. Can the instrument comfortably handle all your samples? Check the particle size range and the availability of efficient dispersion units for suspension, emulsion, and dry powder analysis.

3. Are there any features that will boost productivity? Ask about measurement times; check how easy it is to switch between sample types and assess maintenance requirements.

4. How does the SHE performance of the system compare with others? A good dry dispersion unit will minimize the need for wet measurement, for example, cutting dispersant use. If you need containment then assess its quality.

5. How easy is it to tailor analysis to your precise needs? Check out the software interface, and the process required to develop methods and present your data how you want it.

6. And finally what type of support is available, now and into the future, if things go wrong, or with a new application? Ask about provisions for on-line education and training.

Recently Released PARTICLE SIZE ANALYZERS

Mastersizer 3000
• Packs exceptional performance into the smallest of footprints
• Delivers reliable and reproducible particle size distribution measurements for both wet and dry dispersions
• Features dynamic range that extends from 0.01 to 3500 microns, and an intuitive software environment • Allows every operator to obtain robust data with minimal analytical input
• Includes embedded application know-how

Malvern Instruments
www.malvern.com

1090LD
• Integrates liquid and dry dispersion in a single rugged and compact instrument
• Designed with two lasers, providing accuracy and precision from 0.04 to 500 microns
• Optical components are permanently mounted on a cast iron base plate to ensure the system is always in alignment

Cilas Particle Size
www.particle-size.com

SALD-2300
• Provides continuous measurement in real time, at minimum one-second intervals
• Measurement range spans particle sizes from 17 nm to 2,500 μ m
• Instrument’s Wing Sensor II achieves high-resolution particle detection with its 78 concentric detector elements.
• A measurement assist function reduces operation errors by allowing users to prepare standard operating procedures

Shimadzu
www.ssi.shimadzu.com

VisualSpreadsheet© V3.2 Particle Analysis Software
• Automatically detects, images and identifies thousands of particles and microorganisms in seconds • A companion to the FlowCAM® particle imaging and analysis system
• Features a suite of advanced shape characterization properties
• New measurement properties provide expanded pattern recognition capabilities for higher levels of discrimination among elongated cells and particles such as diatoms and fibers

Fluid Imaging Technologies
www.fluidimaging.com

PARTICLE SIZE ANALYZER Manufacturers