Precision dispersion unit
Precision dispersion unit
Keywords: Malvern Instruments, Measurement, Particles, Dispersions
Malvern Instruments reports that the new Hydro 2000 Micro Precision sample dispersion unit for its Mastersizer 2000 is designed for precise particle size measurement of very small quantities of material. Owing to the fact that the new unit uses only around 18 to 20ml of dispersant, it is believed that considerable savings can be made in solvent consumption and in disposal costs for waste materials, as well as savings in the cost of the sample itself (Plate 6).
The Micro Precision unit features a powerful compact recirculation system. This reportedly enables it to handle significantly larger, denser particles than can be managed by units that use a magnetic stirrer to maintain particles in suspension. Typical of the capability of the unit is said to be its ability to provide an accurate measurement of the Malvern Quality Audit Standard – a glass bead standard with a density of 2 and a size range from ten to 120 microns(d1 to d99).
Plate 6 Malvern's Micro Precision small volume sample dispersion unit for the Mastersizer 2000 allows precise particle sizing of minute samples under full SOP control
This audit standard plays a pivotal role in the performance of the Operational Qualification (OQ) of all Malvern sample dispersion units and a pack of ten bottles is an integral part of the package that is delivered with the Hydro 2000 Micro Precision Unit.
It is expected that the new system will be of greatest interest in the chemicals industry where often only small amounts of expensive samples are available for measurement, but where no sacrifice of accuracy of measurement can be afforded. However, the Hydro 2000 Micro Precision sample handling unit is thought to be an asset for any laboratory wishing to minimise solvent usage and bring down disposal costs.
According to Malvern, the new unit can, like all Mastersizer 2000 accessories, be very precisely controlled through the development and use of standard operating procedures (SOPs). It features high efficiency sonication for consistent dispersion and provides a temperature readback for complete control. Operation from standard operating procedures in the software is said to ensure a fast route to validation of the measurements, meaning that the user can have complete confidence in the results every time.
Details available from Malvern Instruments Ltd. Tel: +44 (0) 1684 892456;Fax: +44 (0) 1684 892789; e-mail: diptil@malvern.co.uk;Web site: www.malvern.co.uk
