Laser Diffraction Particle Size Testing for Powders & Suspensions
Laser Diffractometry is an optical technique that uses diffraction patterns for particle size analysis of suspensions, colloidal dispersions, dry powders and aerosols. Characteristic light scattering patterns are analyzed using Fraunhofer and Mie theories to determine particle size distributions. This test is offered by Infinita Lab, USA, to clients in the USA and across the world through its vast laboratory network.
TRUSTED BY
- Overview
- Scope, Applications, and Benefits
- Test Process
- Specifications
- Instrumentation
- Results and Deliverables
Laser Diffraction Overview
Laser diffraction, also known as laser diffractometry, is a widely used particle size analysis technique that determines the size distribution of particles based on the scattering pattern produced when a laser beam passes through a dispersed sample. The angle and intensity of scattered light are measured to calculate particle size using optical models.
This technique is applicable to powders, suspensions, and emulsions across a broad size range from nanometers to millimeters. It provides rapid, repeatable, and high-resolution particle size distribution data, making it essential for quality control, research, and process optimization in industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, food, and materials engineering.
Scope, Applications, and Benefits
Scope
Laser diffraction is used to measure particle size distribution in solid and liquid systems with high accuracy and repeatability. It is suitable for both dry and wet dispersion methods depending on the sample characteristics.
- Applicable to powders, suspensions, emulsions, and aerosols
- Covers wide particle size range from nanometers to millimeters
- Supports both wet and dry dispersion techniques
- Measures volume-based particle size distribution
- Used for quality control and research applications
- Enables analysis of homogeneous and heterogeneous samples
- Suitable for real-time and offline particle size measurement
- Helps evaluate agglomeration and dispersion behavior
Applications
- Pharmaceutical powder characterization
- Food and beverage particle analysis
- Chemical and pigment size distribution measurement
- Cement and construction material evaluation
- Environmental and aerosol particle studies
Benefits
- Wide dynamic measurement range
- Rapid and repeatable results
- Minimal sample preparation required
- High accuracy for particle size distribution
- Suitable for both dry and wet samples
Laser Diffraction Process
Sample Dispersion
Sample is dispersed in air or liquid to ensure individual particle separation.
1Laser Illumination
Laser beam passes through the dispersed particles generating scattering patterns.
2Signal Detection
Detectors measure intensity and angle of scattered light.
3Data Analysis
Software calculates particle size distribution using scattering models.
4Laser Diffraction Technical Specification
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Method | Light scattering measurement using laser beam interaction with particles |
| Measurement Type | Particle size distribution based on scattering intensity |
| Sample Type | Powders, suspensions, emulsions, and aerosols |
| Loading Type | Optical interaction via laser illumination |
| Units | µm, nm, volume %, D10, D50, D90 |
| Size Range | Typically ~0.01 µm to 3500 µm (instrument dependent) |
Instrumentation Used for Testing
- Laser diffraction particle size analyzer
- Wet dispersion unit (liquid medium system)
- Dry powder feeder and dispersion unit
- Optical detection system with multiple detectors
- Data processing and analysis software
Results and Deliverables
- Particle size distribution curve
- D10, D50, D90 values
- Volume and number-based distribution data
- Repeatability and statistical analysis report
- Complete particle characterization report
Partnering with Infinita Lab for Optimal Results
Infinita Lab addresses the most frustrating pain points in the Laser Diffraction testing process: complexity, coordination, and confidentiality. Our platform is built for secure, simplified support, allowing engineering and R&D teams to focus on what matters most: innovation. From kickoff to final report, we orchestrate every detail—fast, seamlessly, and behind the scenes.
Looking for a trusted partner to achieve your research goals? Schedule a meeting with us, send us a request, or call us at (888) 878-3090 to learn more about our services and how we can support you. Request a Quote
Frequently Asked Questions
Laser diffraction is used to determine particle size distribution by measuring how particles scatter light. It provides rapid, accurate data across a wide size range, making it essential for quality control and material characterization in industrial and research applications.
These values represent particle size percentiles. D10 indicates 10% of particles are smaller than that size, D50 is the median size, and D90 indicates 90% are smaller, providing a complete distribution profile.
Wet dispersion uses liquid to suspend particles, suitable for fine materials, while dry dispersion uses air for powders. The choice depends on sample properties and measurement requirements.
These are mathematical models used to interpret scattering data. Mie theory considers optical properties and is more accurate for small particles, while Fraunhofer is simpler and used for larger particles.
Refractive index directly influences scattering calculations, especially for small particles analyzed using Mie theory. Incorrect values can distort particle size results, making accurate input of optical properties essential for precise and reproducible measurements.
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