Our lovely new particle sizer!
We are delighted to annouce that our new Horiba Scientific, Partica LA-960V2 Particle sizer is ready to use at the Nuclear Futures Institute of Bangor University! The LA-960V2 is a laser scattering particle size distribution analyser.
Our acquisition of the particle sizer was made possible because of the EPSRC grant [EP/V035223/1] Simon Middleburgh received to build the new Bangor University Fuel Fabrication Facility (BUFFF) – a new NNUF User Facility.
The particle sizer can detect particle sizes from 1 micron to 3000 microns of dry powders and solids in suspension. The machine can also be used in conjunction with a plethora of solvents and it has an extensive library of refractive indexes to help aid analysis.
The LA-960V2 is capable of accurately measuring NIST-traceable size standards within 0.6% of specification. It is fully compliant with ISO 13320 recommendations regarding the measurement of materials on the D10, D50, and D90 particle sizes.
How does a particle sizer work?
Particle size analysis is carried out by measuring the angle of light scattered by the particles as they pass through the laser beam; the measurement principle of our machine leverages Mie scattering and Fraunhofer diffraction.
Our machine boasts 3 material dispersion methods, the wet sample dispersion unit, vibrating feeder used for fine powders and a gravity feeder for coarser powders.
Why do we measure particle size?
Particle size plays an integral role in the key properties of a material. If one wishes to understand their material wholly, knowing its particle size distribution is paramount.
8 important material properties that you can determine with a particle sizer:
- appearance (e.g. paints)
- flow ability and handling (e.g. granulated products)
- viscosity (thickness)
- efficacy of delivery (principally in drug delivery)
- texture and feel (e.g. food and drink)
- packing density and porosity (e.g. ceramics)
- the relative reactivity or dissolution rate (solubility of a material)
- stability in suspension (associated to wettability)