Particle Size Analyzers
Common Applications for Particle Size Analyzers
- Particle size distribution measurement and analysis
- Laser diffraction particle size measurement
- Comparison of batches, formulations, or process conditions
- Detection of shifts or multiple populations within a particle size distribution
- Pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical particle size analysis
- Quality control and formulation development
Particle size analyzers are analytical instruments used to measure particle size and particle size distribution across pharmaceutical, biotechnology, chemical, food and beverage, cosmetics, materials science, and industrial applications. Accurate particle size analysis can help researchers and quality control teams assess batch consistency, formulation stability, and manufacturing process efficiency.
Our particle size analyzer portfolio includes laser diffraction with polarized intensity differential scattering (PIDS) technology and electrical sensing zone analysis that relies on the Coulter Principle. These approaches support particle size distribution measurement, particle counting, and method selection for a range of liquid suspensions, emulsions, and dry powders.
Multisizer 4e Coulter Counter
- Overall sizing range 0.2 μm-1,600 μm
- 10 μm aperture for micro-particle measurement (0.2 μm)
- Multiple security levels for 21 CFR Part 11 Compliance
- Complex sample analysis across wide particle size distribution range
- Quality assurance ready (multiple SOM/SOP configurations & V-check validation package)
FAQ on Particle Size Analyzers
What is a particle size analyzer?
A particle size analyzer is an instrument used to measure the size and distribution of particles in a sample. Depending on the measurement principle, the instrument may report a number-based or volume-based size distribution and may also provide particle counts or concentration data. The reported size represents an equivalent diameter defined by the measurement method, rather than necessarily describing every dimension of an irregular particle. Particle size analyzers are commonly used in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, chemical, food, cosmetics, and materials science laboratories to support product development, quality control, and process optimization.
What is laser diffraction particle size analysis?
Laser diffraction measures the angular pattern and intensity of light scattered by a population of particles. Larger particles concentrate scattering at smaller angles, while smaller particles contribute proportionally more scattering at wider angles. Software applies an optical model to the measured scattering pattern to calculate a volume-based particle size distribution. Method inputs, including the optical model and refractive-index information where applicable, can affect the reported result. The multiwavelength LS 13 320 XR Particle Size Analyzer combines laser diffraction with PIDS measurements to extend direct measurement into the submicron range.
How is particle size measured?
Particle size can be measured using different physical principles. Laser diffraction determines a particle size distribution from the pattern of light scattered by a population of particles. The Coulter Principle detects changes in electrical resistance as individual particles suspended in an electrolyte pass through an aperture, enabling particle counting and sizing. The appropriate method depends on the expected size range, sample form, required distribution basis, particle concentration, and analytical objective.
What is particle size distribution?
Particle size distribution describes the relative amount of particles present across a range of sizes. A distribution may be reported by number, volume, mass, or another basis, depending on the measurement technique and calculation method.
What is the difference between laser diffraction and the Coulter Principle?
Laser diffraction measures the collective light-scattering pattern from a population of particles and typically reports a volume-based particle size distribution. The Coulter Principle measures particles individually as they pass through an aperture in an electrolyte, providing number-based particle size and count data. Laser diffraction is often selected for broad particle size distributions and wet or dry powder methods, while the Coulter Principle is useful when individual particle counts, concentration, or number-based distributions are required. Final method selection depends on the sample, size range, dispersion conditions, and required output.
