Diffraction / Scattering Particle Analyzers
Last Updated: April 1, 2025
Description
Diffraction/Scattering Particle Analyzers are instruments designed to measure the size distribution of particles in a sample. They achieve this by analyzing the patterns created when a laser light beam passes through the sample and interacts with the particles. These analyzers are non-destructive and non-intrusive, making them suitable for a wide range of industries.
Working Principle
The working principle of diffraction/scattering particle analyzers is based on low-angle light laser scattering (LALLS). A laser beam is directed through a sample, and as it encounters particles, it is scattered at various angles. The scattered light forms a diffraction pattern, which is captured by a detector. The pattern consists of concentric rings, with the spacing of these rings correlating to the size of the particles. Larger particles produce closely spaced rings, while smaller particles result in more widely separated rings. By analyzing these patterns, the particle size distribution can be determined. This method is particularly useful because it provides a non-destructive means of analyzing particle sizes with high accuracy.
Applications
Diffraction/scattering particle analyzers are used in various industries for specific applications. For example, in the pharmaceutical industry, they are employed to ensure the consistency and quality of powdered drugs. In the food industry, they help in analyzing the texture and quality of ingredients like flour and sugar. Additionally, in the chemical industry, these analyzers are used to monitor the size distribution of catalysts and other particulate materials to optimize reactions and processes.
Advantages over other Particle Analyzers
One of the main advantages of diffraction/scattering particle analyzers is their non-destructive nature, which allows for the analysis of samples without altering them. This is particularly beneficial in industries where sample integrity is crucial. Additionally, these analyzers provide rapid and accurate measurements, making them more efficient compared to other methods like sedimentation or sieving, which can be time-consuming and less precise.
Limitations
Despite their advantages, diffraction/scattering particle analyzers have limitations. They require the sample to be sufficiently diluted to prevent particle agglomeration, which can affect the accuracy of the measurements. Additionally, the technique is less effective for particles that are not spherical, as the scattering patterns can become complex and difficult to interpret.
Considerations
When considering the use of diffraction/scattering particle analyzers, several factors should be taken into account. Initial costs can be high due to the sophisticated technology involved. Operating expenses may include maintenance of the laser and detector systems, as well as the need for regular calibration to ensure accuracy. Durability is generally high, but the precision components require careful handling and maintenance. Replacement and maintenance costs can also be significant, particularly if components like the laser or detectors need to be replaced. Accuracy is a key advantage, but it is contingent on proper sample preparation and instrument calibration.
from Shimadzu Scientific Instruments, Inc.
A powerful new tool for research and development in nanotechnology and life sciences, and for measuring fine bubbles. Evaluation of the dispersion and aggregation characteristics of particles is realized with a wide measurement range and in real time. The SALD-7500nano was developed to provide... [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS)
- Sample Type: Emulsion
- Measurement Type: Size
- Measuring Range: 0.0070 to 800
from Micromeritics
Particle sizing techniques have advanced significantly throughout the past several decades. One of the most important contributions to this field is the application of laser-based technologies, complemented by the use of modern photodetectors and digital computers. For some time, progress in laser... [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS)
- Sample Type: Emulsion
- Measurement Type: Size
- Measuring Range: 0.1000 to 1000
from CILAS
The CILAS 1090 particle-size-analyzer is a mid range instrument offering a wider range of particle size measurements. With two lasers and CILAS' multi-wavelength optical architecture, this instrument gives you a measurement range from 0.04 to 500 µm in wet or dry mode. [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS)
- Sample Type: Powder / Solid (optional feature); Emulsion (optional feature); Liquid And Dry
- Measurement Type: Size
- Measuring Range: 0.0400 to 500
from Fritsch GmbH - Milling and Sizing
The ANALYSETTE 22 NanoTec with its especially wide measuring range of 0.01 – 2100 µm is the ideal, universally applicable Laser Particle Sizer for efficient particle size analysis down into the nano range – in production and quality control as well as in research and development. [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS)
- Sample Type: Powder / Solid; Emulsion
- Measurement Type: Size
- Measuring Range: 0.0100 to 2100
from HORIBA Instruments, Inc.
The PR-PD3 Particle Detection System offers excellent throughput, a dependable optical system, and functions that reduce false detections. These features are packaged together in a compact system that is designed to minimize running costs. The PR-PD3 is capable of great versatility thanks to its 0.5... [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS); Laser scattering method
- Sample Type: Aerosol Droplets (Liquid in Gas)
- Measurement Type: Size
- Measuring Range: 0.5000 to 10
from Malvern Instruments, Inc.
At-line particle size analyzer for dry processes. Ideal for use when centrally located among multiple mills. Rapid particle size analysis, based on laser diffraction, for particles in the size range 0.1 to 1000 µm. Fully automated analytical procedure, no sample preparation required. Easily... [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS)
- Sample Type: Powder / Solid
- Measurement Type: Size
- Measuring Range: 0.5000 to 1000
from Teledyne Monitor Labs, Inc.
LaserHawk ® PARTICULATE MATTER Monitor - Model 360. The most stable (under all operating conditions), accurate and maintenance free dust concentration monitor available!. ETL/CE Certfied. The LaserHawk ® was designed to comply with the performance specification for continuous particulate... [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS)
- Sample Type: Aerosol Droplets (Liquid in Gas)
- Measurement Type: Specialty / Other; Particle Concentration
- Sample Temperature: -4 to 140
from Shimadzu Scientific Instruments, Inc.
This low cost analyzer offers high performance and a small footprint. Design specifically for wet measurement, it is ideal for particles with relatively low specific gravity (less than 2), such as foods, beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and emulsions. Key features of the SALD series include:... [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS)
- Sample Type: Emulsion
- Measurement Type: Size
- Measuring Range: 0.2500 to 50
from CILAS
The CILAS 1190 particle-size-analyzer sets a new standard in particle characterization. Its integrated wet and dry dispersion modes, built in video camera and short optical path make it the most versatile instrument available anywhere. The unique design of the 1190 provides a measurement range from... [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS)
- Sample Type: Powder / Solid (optional feature); Emulsion (optional feature); Liquid And Dry
- Measurement Type: Size
- Measuring Range: 0.0400 to 2500
from HORIBA Instruments, Inc.
The PR-PD5 Particle Detection System has been designed to be integrated with any other system as a space-saving measure. Installing the PR-PD5 to the conveyor, or the reticle stocker, allows the performance of simultaneous inspection, while combining it with the cleaning device enables inspection... [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS); Laser scattering method
- Sample Type: Aerosol Droplets (Liquid in Gas)
- Measurement Type: Size
- Measuring Range: 0.5000 to 50
from Malvern Instruments, Inc.
The Insitec T particle size analyzer is designed to measure: Solid particulates suspended in gas process stream. Automatic on-line continuous, or at-line manual. Static installation. Real-time particle size analyzer based on laser diffraction 0.1 to 1000 µm. Designed for real-time control of... [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS)
- Sample Type: Aerosol Droplets (Liquid in Gas)
- Measurement Type: Size
- Measuring Range: 0.5000 to 1000
from Shimadzu Scientific Instruments, Inc.
Designed specifically for wet measurement, the SALD-301V is equipped with a violet semiconductor laser (405 nm wavelength), which increases accuracy and resolution of sub-micron particle size analysis. An improved optical system provides better performance in the microparticle region, and enables... [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS)
- Sample Type: Emulsion
- Measurement Type: Size
- Measuring Range: 0.1000 to 50
from CILAS
The CILAS 990 gives you the best price/performance ratio of any system on the market. You can measure particles with sizes ranging from 0.2 to 500 µm. All of our more advanced, time saving options and accessories are available for the CILAS 990 particle-size-analyzer. These include a video... [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS)
- Sample Type: Powder / Solid (optional feature); Emulsion (optional feature); Liquid And Dry
- Measurement Type: Size
- Measuring Range: 0.2000 to 500
from HORIBA Instruments, Inc.
The HORIBA PR-PD2HR Particle Detection System inherits it's high-performance functions from the reticle/mask particle detection PD series which is proud of its high availability and long-term stability. At the same time also increasing the S/N ratio by more than three times and dramatically... [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS); Polarized laser scattering method
- Sample Type: Aerosol Droplets (Liquid in Gas)
- Measurement Type: Size
- Measuring Range: 0.3500 to 10
from Malvern Instruments, Inc.
The Mastersizer 2000 particle size analyzer has been developed to meet industry's growing need for global comparability of results, traceability, regulatory compliance, and efficiency in the laboratory. In introducing the Mastersizer 2000 particle size analyzer, Malvern has advanced particle size... [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS)
- Sample Type: Powder / Solid; Emulsion
- Measurement Type: Size
- Measuring Range: 0.0200 to 2000
from Shimadzu Scientific Instruments, Inc.
The SALD-31010 is designed for measurement of coarse or dense particles with a variety of sampling options for both wet and dry samples. It seamlessly covers a wide measuring range from 0.05 to 3,000 µm using a single measurement principle, a single optical system, and a single light source. A... [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS)
- Sample Type: Powder / Solid; Emulsion
- Measurement Type: Size
- Measuring Range: 0.0500 to 3000
from HORIBA Instruments, Inc.
The PR-PD2 Particle Detection System enables fine particle detection down to 0.35 μm and also boasts a multi-stage sorter plus has a full range of communication functions. High-throughput measurement is possible on all surfaces from basic reticle and mask to glass and pellicle. Enabled to... [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS); Polarized laser scattering method
- Sample Type: Aerosol Droplets (Liquid in Gas)
- Measurement Type: Size
- Measuring Range: 0.0350 to 10
from Malvern Instruments, Inc.
The new Mastersizer 3000 puts Malvern's experience and expertise into your hands. Easily configured to meet individual application requirements, it generates robust, reproducible particle sizing data with the minimum of fuss. A new optical core concentrates the best ever Mastersizer performance into... [See More]
- Technology: Diffraction / Laser Diffraction (LALLS)
- Sample Type: Emulsion
- Measurement Type: Size
- Measuring Range: 0.0100 to 3500