Particle Characterisation

Particle Size

As particles are extended three-dimensional objects, only a perfect spherical particle allows for a simple definition of the particle size x, as the diameter of the sphere. In practice, spherical particles are very rare. So usually equivalent diameters are measured, representing the diameter of a sphere which behaves as the real (non-spherical) particle in a specific sizing experiment. Unfortunately, the measured size is now depending on the method used for sizing. So one can only expect identical results for the particle size if the particles are either spherical or the same sizing method, i.e. the same equivalent diameter, is used.

In most applications more than one particle is observed. As each individual particle may have its own particle size, methods for data reduction have been introduced - the particle size distribution, a fit to a specific model distribution and moments or an average particle size are used.

Learn more about particle sizing in lab and process

Laser diffraction analyser HELOS/BR with dry and wet dispersion OASIS/L and dosing unit VIBRI/L for the determination of particle size distribution.
HELOS | Particle size analysis in laboratory

The proven HELOS series – with its classical laser diffraction set-up deploying a parallel beam – offers a powerful technology for particle size analysis of powders, granules, suspensions, emulsions, sprays and numerous other disperse systems from below 0.1 µm to 8,750 µm. A great variety of dispersing and dosing units provides a flexible adaptation to myriads of industrial and research applications.

Particle size analysis with MYTOS, RODOS and TWISTER with process-coupling
MYTOS & Co. | Particle size analysis in process environment

MYTOS integrates the core particle size technologies of HELOS laser diffraction and RODOS dry dispersion in a single robust body: a process-proven laser diffraction sensor for dry powders ranging from 0.25 μm to 3,500 μm. In combination with the sampling system TWISTER a complete in-line integration into the processing pipe is realised. Alternatively, MYTOS may be operated on-line either with TWISTER, MIXER, L-probes or existing sampling solutions. Integrated at-line operation in automated lab environments is succeeded with vibratory feeder VIBRI.

Particle shape analysis with QICPIC, RODOS/L and VIBRI/L
QICPIC | Particle size and particle shape analysis in laboratory

The modular image analysis sensor QICPIC combines size and shape analysis of particulate systems from 1 µm to 34,000 µm. Flexible adaption to powders, granules, fibres, suspensions and emulsions is provided by a wide range of dispersing and dosing units. Numerous implementations in pharmaceutical and chemical industry, food and beverage technology, and soil science just denote the array of applications in industry and research.

Particle size and shape analysis in process environment for dry powders, granules, suspensions and emulsion
PICTOS & Co. | Particle size and particle shape analysis in process environment

Process-related particle size and shape characterization is realized with integrated image analysis sensors PICTOS, PICTIS & PICCELL covering a size range from 1 µm to 10,000 µm. PICTOS integrates QICPIC dynamic image analysis and RODOS dry dispersion technology in a robust body, which was specifically developed for on-line applications. PICTIS combines image analysis and gentle gravitational disperser GRADIS, allowing at-line or on-line applications in process environments. And PICCELL with its flow-through cuvette finally transfers wet dispersion to on-line operations of image analysis.

Dynamic light scattering sensor NANOPHOX for the determination of particle size in the nano range
NANOPHOX | Particle size analysis and stability of nano suspensions in laboratory

NANOPHOX brings photon cross-correlation spectroscopy (PCCS) to life, which allows for size analysis of nanoparticles in turbid suspensions and emulsions ranging from 0.5 nm to 10,000 nm at high solid contents. In addition, aggregation, agglomeration and stability of nano-suspensions and emulsions may be analysed. Typical applications comprise e.g., pharmaceutical ingredients, pigments and research on nanomaterials in general.

OPUS-AF with rack and pipe or reactor adapter for particle characterisation
OPUS & Co. | Particle size and concentration in laboratory and process environment

The ultrasonic extinction sensor OPUS analyses both the particle size distribution and the concentration of disperse phases in suspensions and emulsions in the range from less than 0.1 micron to 3,000 microns in real time. OPUS is designed as a stable process probe for high temperatures and pressures and can withstand chemical and mechanical stresses. In addition to a dustproof and splashproof IP65 version, OPUS is also available as an ATEX probe. The connection to various processes is via a selection of process adapters. The common communication protocols are available for the exchange of data with your process control system.