- Particle Analytical performs initial screenings and routine analysis (laser diffraction, microscopy, SEM etc).
- Contact us to ask further questions or to get a quote.
Particle size is by far the most important physical property of particulate samples . Particle size determinations is routinely carried out across a wide range of industries and is often a critical parameter in the manufacture of many products. Particle size has a direct influence on material properties such as:
- Reactivity or dissolution rate – e.g. catalysts, tablets
- Stability in suspension – e.g. sediments
- Efficacy of delivery – e.g. asthma inhalers
- Texture and feel – e.g. food ingredients
- Appearance – e.g. powder coatings
- Flowability and handling – e.g. granules
- Viscosity – e.g. nasal sprays
- Packing density and porosity – e.g. ceramics
Particle size distribution should be known – and controlled. Ultimately, this is in order to protect patients, but also to avoid unpleasant surprises during manufacture. Measurement of particle size is not an exact technique and a “true” value does not exist. A range of analytical techniques is available for determination of particle size. In order to develop and validate analytical methods for determination of particle size, it is necessary to correlate several methods. At Particle Analytical we are able to perform various complementary analyses in particle size determination.
The way the equivalent sphere approximation works is shown below for an irregularly-shaped particle. The diameter reported for this particle will be dependent on the physical property measured by the chosen technique.
At Particle Analytical we are able to perform various complementary analyses to determine particle size distribution and other particle characteristics:
- Laser diffraction
- Optical microscopy
- SEM
- BET
- Surface area measurement
We can deliver a fully validated method within two weeks. Contact us to get a quote – or to obtain further information about particle size determination.