A complete system for analysis of particle size in air and liquid dispersions in a range of 0.6 nm – 1 mm and for zeta potential measurement

The system comprises a ZETASIZER NANO – for nanometric particle size analysis and zeta potential measurement and a MASTERSIZER 2000 - for laser particle size analysis in powders, suspensions and emulsions; both devices are designed and manufactured by Malvern Instruments. The measuring system is assigned for physico-chemical measurement of base and moulding materials used in the manufacture of pilot models by selected RPS techniques. The instrument has been purchased by the Foundry Research Institute in Cracow and is widely used for measurement of particle size in both wet and dry dispersions and for determination of their polydispersive features (e.g. nanopowders of enriched starch, high-temperature ceramic nanopowders and colloidal suspensions of binders). Nanopowders are used in the manufacture of foundry moulds, patterns and various exhibits. The measuring instruments have got the CE Certificate with the required conformity mark.

1. ZETASIZER NANO is assigned for the measurement of zeta potential, responsible for – among others – the stability of binder suspensions.

The apparatus is used for the measurement of the following physical parameters: particle size in wet dispersion, molecular weight and zeta potential. The measuring range of particle size is at least 0.6nm to 6 μm. The measuring method is that of a dynamic light scattering (DLS). It is fully consistent with ISO 13321 as regards the design of the analyser, the mode of taking measurements and data processing by the computer. The measuring range of molecular weight is at least 2 . 10³ – 1 . 10⁷ Da. The range of particle sizes for zeta potential measurement is 3nm – 10 μm. It is also possible to measure particle size in samples of small volume (15 μl – 1.5 ml). The source of light is laser. The system has a titrating device for the measurement of zeta potential in function of pH (1-13), conductivity and concentration of additives. Possible measurement by standard operating procedures (SOP). The control program is operating under Windows XP. The system has been provided with an option which enables creating and printing of own reports.

2. MASTERSIZER 2000 - laser analyser of particle size in powders, dispersions and emulsions. The measuring method is that of laser diffraction (in conformity with ISO 13320-1 over the entire measuring range).

Measuring range: 0,1μ m -1 mm; during one single measurement the analysis covers the whole measuring range. A dispersing unit for liquid dispersions with built-in stirring arm, pump and ultrasonic probe for breaking of agglomerates. A dispersing unit for air dispersions operating within the air pressure range of 0 – 4 bar. Laser power: 3.5 mW Repeatability of measurements: at least 1,5%. Reproducibility of measurements: at least 3%. The software compatible with MS Windows enables integrated collecting of the measuring data with creation and storing of individual standard operating procedures (SOP), export of the measurement results and parameters to other applications, e.g. Microsoft Word or Exel. Off-site processing of the results of analysis, i.e. without the need of getting a connection with the apparatus. Possibility to combine the obtained results with the results obtained by other measuring techniques, e.g. phase screen method.