Routine particle-size results depend on a robust measurement method
Laser diffraction can measure a broad particle-size range quickly, but the apparent simplicity of routine analysis depends on careful method development. Sampling, dispersion, optical assumptions, concentration, measurement duration, and repeatability can all change the reported distribution.
What the resource covers
- Representative sampling and the increased influence of coarse particles near the edge of a distribution.
- Wet versus dry dispersion, dispersant choice, obscuration, multiple scattering, and dispersion-energy studies.
- Mie and Fraunhofer optical models, measurement duration, repeatability, and reproducibility expectations.
Key scientific takeaways
Sampling can dominate measurement error
A small laboratory portion may not represent the coarse fraction or a broad distribution, even when the instrument repeats precisely.
Dispersion must match the analytical question
The method should separate unwanted agglomerates without dissolving, degrading, or milling the particles being measured.
Method settings need experimental justification
Obscuration, optical properties, air pressure, sonication, and measurement duration should be supported by titrations and repeatability data.
Document details
| Document type | External Publication |
|---|---|
| Title | Method Development for Laser-Diffraction Particle-Size Analysis |
| Author | Anne Virden |
| Publication date | November 2, 2010 |
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This article was published by Pharmaceutical Technology and is linked to the publisher rather than placed behind the Triclinic resource form.