Have you heard of laser diffraction particle size analyzers? If not, you’re in good company. No one really has, unless you need a really precise level of measurement, or work in an industry where BET isotherm types are a thing you talk about on the regular (BET isotherm types are a topic that measures the level in which gas is absorbed. In case you don’t know what BET isotherm types are. No one knows what BET isotherm types are.)


The point is, if you are looking for laser diffraction for particle size analysis, you’ve come to the right place. Please read our frequently asked questions, below:


Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Diffraction

1. What is particle size analysis determination?
   
   When you need to know the number of particles in a specific powder particle size determination would provide the answers you’re looking for. If you need to know even need to know how many particles are suspended or emulsed in a liquid, particle size analysis would provide answers.
2. What real world uses do particle size analysis provide?
   
   There are a lot of real world practical uses for particle size analysis. If you’ve ever looked at the concentration of a medication listed on the size of a medication, that question is answered with particle size analysis. The correct balance of ingredients in a cosmetic is determined with particle size analysis. The accurate mixture of concrete and water to make cement is answered through particle size analysis. Other industries that use particle size analysis are manufacturing, environmental industries, and even pottery studios.




3. What are traditional methods of particle size analysis?
   
   The most common method of particle size analysis includes the following steps:
   1. A sample size of the bulk powder is taken.
   2. A smaller sampling is taken from the initial sampling. This is the specimen that is actually measured.
   3. The specimen is prepared or dispersed, depending on the nature of the specimen.
   4. The sieve or other traditional form of particle size analysis is set up to verify the number of particles in the specimen.
   5. The measurements of the specimen are taken.
   6. The results of the data retrieved in the previous step is analyzed for further interpretation.
   7. Reports are prepared based on the particle size results, which are used for the business functions they were intended for.

   Sometimes these methods of particle size analysis are performed by a third party who specializes in measuring particle sizes, sometimes companies do set up particle size analysis in-house. If a manufacturer needs to verify the particle sizes of each batch, it might make more sense to analyze each batch themselves than to use a third-party for it.




4. How is laser diffraction used for particle size analysis?
   Laser diffraction gives you the most accurate particle size analysis there is. Traditional methods of particle size analysis give you an answer with a margin of error. If you took the same amount of a contents and run particle size analysis through several different methods, you’d get varied results. On the other hand, with the laser diffraction method, every single time you run the test, you’ll get the exact same results. Down to the particle.
   
   
   This not only offers better accuracy, it also gives you better results much faster. Faster results gives you much greater efficiency.




5. How much does it cost to get started with a laser diffraction equipment and how much is maintenance?
   
   The cost of this kind of technology varies based on the age of the model and the complexity of it. If cost is a particular problem for you, you might find a used model adequate. This type of technology is tends to last a long time, reliably.
   
   
   Another consideration you need to make if you are acquiring this type of nanotechnology is maintenance. Your laser diffraction testing equipment is only valuable if it is properly maintained an able to provide accurate readings. Before purchasing a used unit, you should ensure that it has records of it’s preventative maintenance. Whether your unit is used or brand new, you should make sure that you follow the maintenance schedule as directed by the manufacturer.

What do you think? Have you every used laser diffraction? Do you have any other questions or comments about this subject? We want to hear your thoughts in the comment section below!