What is the Mastersizer 3000 used for?
The Mastersizer 3000+ is an advanced laser diffraction particle size analyser used to measure reliable particle size distribution for both wet and dry dispersions.
How much sample should be used for Mastersizer 3000 particle size analysis?
We use ‘obscuration’, which is the amount of light blocked or scattered by particles, as a method to measure particle concentration in particle size analysers. The recommended range of obscuration varies depending on the particle size, and it is differently applied in wet and dry dispersion. For wet measurements, you can conduct an obscuration titration to determine the appropriate obscuration range.
What is the particle size range of the Mastersizer 3000?
The Mastersizer 3000+ Ultra covers 0.01 µm to 3500 µm. The Pro model covers 0.1 µm to 2500 µm, and the Lab model 0.1 µm to 1000 µm.
What are the applications of laser diffraction particle size analysis?
Applications include characterising powder flowability, packing density, stability, dissolution rates, inhalation properties, reaction rates, optical properties, processability, and curing properties.
What types of samples can be measured with Mastersizer 3000?
The Mastersizer 3000+ measures both wet dispersions and dry powder samples. Wet dispersion options include the Hydro SM, SV, EV, MV, and LV units; dry powders are measured using the Aero S or Aero M dry dispersion units.
What standards does the Mastersizer 3000 comply with?
The Mastersizer 3000+ Ultra and Pro models support 21 CFR Part 11 and IQ/OQ validation for regulated environments. This is achieved using the integrated OmniTrust compliance software package.
Can the Mastersizer 3000 measure nanoparticles?
Yes. The Mastersizer 3000+ Ultra can measure particles as small as 0.01 µm (10 nm), which falls within the nanoparticle size range. DLS (Zetasizer) and NTA (NanoSight Pro) is the most common method of measurement for particle and molecular size analysis in the nanometer range.
What does DV10, DV50 and DV90 mean?
Dv10 refers to the 10th percentile of the cumulative volume distribution. This indicates that 10% of the sample’s volume is below this size, and it is used to track changes in the finest particles within a sample. In general, the Dv10, Dv50, and Dv90 percentile values are automatically reported by the software.
How do you determine whether samples should be tested as dry or wet?
When choosing between wet and dry dispersion methods using laser diffraction, key considerations include the physical and chemical properties of the sample and the goals of the dispersion process. Wet dispersion is ideal for cohesive, fine, or hygroscopic particles, and for handling toxic substances safely. Dry dispersion is suitable for materials that dissolve in liquids, magnetised particles, or products designed to be dispersed in air. It uses compressed air to disperse particles and is quicker with minimal cleaning required.
How do I stop my powder from clumping together or floating on the surface?
Using surfactants and additives in wet laser diffraction methods can enhance the dispersion and stability of samples. We recommend using low concentrations of surfactants and additives (0.1-4% by weight) to minimise the risk of foaming and destabilising the dispersion. Non-ionic surfactants such as Nonidet P-40 or Igepal CA-630, Tween 20, and Span 20 adsorb onto the particle surface to improve dispersion. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), an anionic surfactant, increases repulsion between particles. Sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP) prevents agglomeration in aqueous solutions.
How often is maintenance required for the Mastersizer 3000?
MalvernPanalytical recommends that Mastersizer systems undergo PV (Performance Verification) testing on an annual basis. The optical bed is tested using multiple latex standards (100 nm, 1um and 9 um), followed by dispersion unit testing using QAS (polydisperse glass bead) standards. Contact us for a quote.
What reference standards are recommended for measuring particles?
We recommend using glass beads, certified reference materials for accurate and reliable measurements. The QAS (glass bead) standards are offered to customers as a regular single shot reference material, of known Refractive Index which have a particle size distribution which extends over greater than one decade in size, with pass/fail criteria and a measurement manual. Contact us for a quote.
How do I set up a method on the Mastersizer 3000?
Setting up a method involves defining sample and material properties (e.g. refractive index), selecting wet or dry dispersion, establishing SOP instrument settings, performing background measurements before adding sample until stable obscuration is reached, then running the measurement. The integrated SOP Architect feature streamlines this process through an automated workflow.
What is the best way to measure particle size with the Mastersizer 3000?
Malvern Panalytical’s Mastersizer 3000+ uses Adaptive Diffraction technology to distinguish between steady-state and transient signals. SizeSure is an AI-powered measurement mode that improves confidence in results, provides clearer and more reliable data, and assists with method development by reducing troubleshooting time.
Can the Mastersizer help identify issues with measurements?
Yes. Malvern Data Quality Guidance is a software feature that provides real-time, AI-driven feedback during particle size analysis. It identifies potential issues, suggests probable causes, and recommends solutions at every stage from background measurements to sample analysis.
How should water be supplied for automated filling during a wet dispersion measurement?
For most applications, the liquid dispersant is water from a header tank or the mains supply. The water inlet to both the Hydro LV and Hydro MV dispersion units fits to a 6 mm inner diameter hose. The other end of this hose should be properly and securely fitted to a water supply with an input pressure range of minimum 1 bar g (100 kPa g) @ 25 mL/, maximum input pressure: 4 bar g (400 kPa g) @ 25 mL/s. If the input pressure to the dispersion unit exceeds 4 bar g, an external pressure regulator must be fitted to reduce this to 4 bar g.
Why should I buy a Mastersizer?
The Mastersizer is the most trusted particle sizing instrument in the world. It performs rapid and accurate laser diffraction particle size analysis for critical decision-making in R&D and quality control across pharmaceuticals, food, minerals/mining, and energy. Key benefits include a wide measurement range (10 nm to 3.5 mm), robust and reproducible data, intuitive software with built-in expertise, flexible reporting, reliable wet and dry dispersion, and excellent local support from ATA Scientific.
How much does a Mastersizer laser diffraction system cost?
The Mastersizer comes in many affordable and scalable configurations depending on your sample and needs. By requesting a quote, our team will get back in touch with the best set of options for your organisation.
Can I have a demonstration or free trial of the Mastersizer?
Yes, contact us for a booking. We can arrange a personalised demo and test your samples within our lab facility in Sydney. Onsite free trials are also available. Contact us or complete a request a demo form to get started.