Particle Size & Shape Analysis with Microtrac's optical particle analyzers

For the physical characterization of particles Microtrac offers a range of optical particle analyzers. Microtrac is the only worldwide supplier of dynamic image analysis,laser diffraction and sieve analysis equipment with an extensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each method.

Particle Size is the fastest way to rule methods in or out. Find your range on the scale. In case two methods overlap, the questions below will help you decide.

Technology

Dynamic light scattering (DLS) NANOTRAC

0.8 nm – 6500 nm · Nanoparticles, emulsions, proteins

Laser diffraction (LD) SYNC · AEROTRAC II

10 nm – 5 mm · Powders, suspensions, sprays, cement

Dynamic image analysis (DIA) CAMSIZER

0.8 µm – 135 mm · Granules, pellets, abrasives — and shape

Do you need particle shape, not just size?

Only Dynamic Image Analysis (DIA) measures shape and individual particles - the others report a size distribution only.

Do you need to analyze below ~1 µm?

Then Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), or Laser Diffraction (LD) down to 10 nm. Above ~1 mm, Dynamic Image Analysis (DIA).

Do you need to catch a few oversized grains?

Dynamic Image Analysis (DIA) detects them reliably; laser diffraction and DLS can miss them.

Are you looking to replace sieve analysis?

Dynamic Image Analysis (DIA) reproduces sieve results while removing the manual effort and screen wear.

Dynamic Image Analysis (DIA)

Laser Diffraction (LD)

Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS)

Sieve Analysis, Laser Diffraction or Dynamic Image Analysis? Comparison of measurement techniques

Dynamic Image Analysis (DIA) Sieve Analysis
(Retsch)		 Laser Diffraction (LD) Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS)
Wide dynamic measurement range ++ + ++ +
Reproducibility and repeatability ++ + ++ +
High resolution for narrow distributions ++ - + +
Particle shape analysis + - - -
Direct measurement technique ++ + - -
Reliable detection of oversized grains ++ ++ - +
Robust hardware, easy operation for routine analysis ++ + ++ +
Analysis of individual particles + - - -
High measurement speed, short measurement times ++ - ++ +
Analysis of nano particles - - + ++
Analysis of Zeta potential and molecular weight - - - ++
Versatility + + ++ -
Measuring range 0.8 µm - 135 mm 10 µm - 125 mm 10 nm – 5 mm 0.8 nm - 6500 nm