Particle Size Analysis

Particle size analysis provides valuable information about the physical characteristics of materials, including their size, shape and distribution, which can gain insights into the properties of various materials and their applicable uses across industries.

Particle size analysis is a laboratory technique used to determine the size, and size distribution of particles in a sample. Particle size and distribution play a crucial role in the physical and chemical properties of particles, and then can determine their behavior and their use in various applications. For instance, particle size can influence the performance and efficiency of catalytic reactions, the taste of foods, the absorbance rate of pharmaceutical drugs, and the stability of cosmetic products, among other things. Therefore, through the diverse techniques of particle size analysis, scientists and engineers can better understand how the material will behave in various applications, such as drug formulation, food processing, and material science.

Particle Size Analysis Techniques

Particle size measurement is usually achieved through particle size analyzers. A variety of techniques have been developed to ascertain the size of particles. Each method carries its set of pros and cons about the precision, cost, and complexity involved in the process. And the method selected can depend on factors such as type of sample, size range of particles, and the property that needs to be analyzed. Some typical techniques are described below.

Sieve Analysis: In this technique, particles are separated into different size fractions by using a series of sieves with varying mesh sizes. The results of a sieve analysis are typically presented in the form of a particle size distribution curve, which shows the percentage of material that falls within various size ranges. This information is important for determining the suitability of a material for a particular application, such as in construction or manufacturing processes.
Dynamic Image Analysis (DIA): This technique is used to analyze particles in a dynamic environment. It involves capturing images of moving particles and analyzing them to obtain information such as size, shape, and count. DIA is commonly used in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, and environmental monitoring. The main advantage of DIA over traditional particle analysis techniques such as static image analysis or laser diffraction is its ability to capture particles in motion, providing a more accurate representation of the particle population.
Static Laser Light Scattering (SLS): It is a technique used to measure the size and distribution of particles in a sample. A laser beam is directed at the sample, and the scattered light is measured at various angles. By analyzing the intensity and angle of the scattered light, information about the size and distribution of particles in the sample can be obtained. SLS analysis is commonly used in the fields of chemistry, biology, and materials science to characterize particles such as proteins, polymers, and nanoparticles.
Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS): It is a technique used to determine the size distribution of particles or molecules in a solution. It works by measuring the fluctuations in the intensity of light scattered by the particles as they move around in the solution due to Brownian motion. DLS is commonly used in the fields of chemistry, biology, and nanotechnology to measure the size of nanoparticles, proteins, and other macromolecules in solution. It is a quick and non-destructive technique that requires only a small amount of sample, making it a popular choice for characterizing the size of particles in colloidal solutions.

Application of Particle Size Analysis in Deformualtion

Here, particle size analysis has a significant role to play. With the help of particle size analysis, the particle size and its distribution of component can be accurately measured. This information can be utilized to replicate the product or develop a better version of it. For instance, in the deformulation of a drug, the most important step is the solid state characterization (e.g. particle size analysis) of the API (active pharmaceutical ingredient). Because API particle size distribution affects surface area and porosity, thus has an impact on bioavailability, effectiveness, and shelf life of drugs. Therefore, the information obtained from the particle size distribution of APIs is critical to replicate drug or develop a better version of drug ensuring solubility and bioequivalence. Similarly, particle size analysis also plays an important role in the deformulation of food, cosmetics and others.

How We Can Help You?

At Alfa Chemistry, our team of expert specializes in deformulation analysis and has a comprehensive grasp of a wide range of particle size analysis techniques, including sieve analysis, dynamic image analysis (DIA), dynamic light scattering (DLS), static laser light scattering (SLS), sedimentation analysis, etc. For those in industries where particle size plays a pivotal role in product performance, and people want to understand the particle size of product or deformulate product and then formulate a new product with optimized particle sizes, Alfa Chemistry can provide comprehensive solutions, ensuring accurate measurements and insightful interpretations.

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