Particle characterization is critical in a vast number of industries, from food and beverage to pharmaceutical, chemical, mineral and other industrial applications. Regardless of application, knowing the size and shape of particles allows manufacturers to control product effectiveness and maintain customer satisfaction—which is why quality control and particle analysis should go hand-in-hand. Whether you are new to particle characterization or are interested in fine-tuning your current methodology, consider the tips below as you work to meet product and customer expectations.
Tip 1: Choose the Right Analysis Technique
There are three common analysis techniques scientists and researchers employ to determine the size distribution of a particle—laser diffraction, dynamic light scattering and imaging particle analysis. Laser diffraction, the gold standard technique, boasts a wide detection range and is fast and reliable. Meanwhile, dynamic light scattering is a sensitive, non-invasive method for particles in suspension or polymers in solution. Imaging particle analysis provides the highest sensitivity and resolution by using a myriad of microscopy techniques to capture images of particle size, shape and distribution.
Tip 2: Size Matters
One micron is often used as the natural breaking point between particle analysis techniques. Laser diffraction and dynamic light scattering (as well as some microscopy techniques like electron microscopy), are ideal for analyzing particles smaller than 1 micron. Conversely, imaging particle analysis, whether dynamic or static, is best suited for particles that are larger than 1 micron.
Tip 3: Consider Real-time Monitoring
Offline particle size analysis is a reliable, reproducible method that is still the standard for most modern laboratories. However, given increasingly stringent regulations and a need for higher throughput, scientists and researchers are turning to online, or real-time, monitoring to ensure less turnover. Technology can be used to monitor particle mechanisms such as growth, agglomeration, breakage and more. Insights from the monitoring can them be used to troubleshoot and improves established processes in production. Additionally, real-time monitoring offers a safe, peace-of-mind solution for processes where sampling is difficult or near-impossible. Financially speaking, more precise QC can reduce the costs associated with re-work, both from a lab resources and personnel perspective. Real-time monitoring can also save in energy consumption and lead to a quicker ROI given increased throughput.
Tip 4: Try it Two Ways
In pharmaceutical applications, particle characterization is directly related to patient safety and efficacy. The size, distribution and shape of the particles can affect bulk properties, product performance, processability, stability and appearance of the medication end product. Thus, it is recommended that a particular sample be characterized by at least two different techniques to ensure reproducibility (and repeatability) and obtain a better idea regarding particle properties.