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Discover our other particle size analyses

In addition to particle size analysis by laser diffraction, we offer the following particle size analyses:

For all these analyses, we guarantee our clients high responsiveness, very short turnaround times and optimal prices.

Discover our other analysis services

Particle shape analysis

Further information

Particle shape analysis


The Morphologi G3, an automated particle characterisation system.

SDTech Micro is equipped with a Morphologi G3, an advanced particle characterisation system for measuring the size and shape of particles measuring 0.5 microns to several millimetres. This single instrument provides the necessary flexibility for R&D and problem diagnosis as well as user independent results and the validation required for automated QC analysis (Quality Control). This technique is frequently used in conjunction with laser particle analysis for a better understanding of the product or process behaviour.

Function

The Morphologi G3 measures particle size and shape via static image analysis. There are 3 main stages in the measurement process:

Preparation and dispersion of the sample

This step is critical for obtaining good results. The aim is to achieve the physical separation of individual particles and agglomerates. The Morphologi G3 has an integrated dry powder dispersion system, which renders dry powder sample preparation simple and repeatable. A range of accessories are also available enabling samples to be prepared in the form of liquid suspensions or on membrane filters.

Image capture

The instrument captures images of individual particles by passing the sample under the microscope lenses while maintaining the focus on the particles. The Morphologi G3 is able to cast a very precise amount of light on the sample from above or from below. Polarising filters can also be used in order to study birefringent materials.

Data Analysis

The instrument measures a wide range of morphological parameters for each particle. The software’s advanced graphical representation and data classification options enable relevant data extraction from all your measurement data through an intuitive visual interface which is as simple as possible. The grayscale images are stored individually for each particle, in order to allow qualitative verification of quantitative results.

Specifications

Particle size

Measuring range: 0.5 µm to 10 mm (depending on the sample)
Measuring principle: Static image analysis
Size parameters: CE diameter (circle equivalent), length, width, perimeter, surface area, maximum distance, SE Volume

Particle shape

Measuring range: 0.5 µm to 10 mm (depending on the sample)
Measuring principle: Static image analysis
Shape parameters: Aspect ratio, circularity, convexity, elongation, HS circularity, solidity, average intensity, standard deviation of intensity

Time-frame for analysis results

SDTech Micro is committed to completing your Morpho G3 analyses within 48-72 hours following receipt of your samples.

Scanning Electron Microscopy, a visual examination of particles

SDTech can provide scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis in order to visually examine the morphology of very fine powders (<1 µm).

Function

A three-dimensional image of the surface is reconstructed by analysing the secondary electrons emitted during the interaction of an electron beam with the matter.
Chemical microanalysis can also be performed using an energy dispersive x-ray probe (EDS). The impact of the electron beam on the sample produces X-rays which are characteristic of the elements present.

Specifications

A visual examination using scanning electron microscopy enables us to study the shape of very fine particles (<1 µm) present in the sample.
Surface defects and asperities, cracks and images after cutting of materials can also be studied.
Qualitative elemental analysis allows the detection of the elements of the periodic table starting from carbon.

Time-frame for analysis results

This type of analysis requires 1 to 2 weeks.

Thermal analysis

Further information

Thermal analysis


Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC)

SDTech is equipped with Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). This technique is used to study the thermal transitions of a given material (fusion, crystallisation, melting point, glass transition temperature, degradation etc).

Function

The measurement involves determining the variation in heat flux emitted or received by a given sample when subjected to changes in temperature. During the heating or cooling process, any change in a material is accompanied by an endothermic or exothermic heat exchange. The DSC is able to pinpoint the temperature at which the changes take place and provide qualitative and quantitative information about these reactions.

Specifications

With DSC the following thermal reactions can be observed:

  • Glass transition point
  • Evaporation
  • Melting
  • Enthalpy relaxation
  • Crystallisation
  • Decomposition

Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)

Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) measures the changes in mass of a sample as it is heated.
This technique is mainly used to characterize materials according to their composition.
It gives access to the mass composition of a mixture and to its thermal stability.
Its fields of application include thermoplastic materials, elastomers, thermosets, metals, ceramics, but also various cosmetic, food or pharmaceutical formulations…

Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA)

Complementary to DSC, Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) allows the study of weak transitions at high temperatures (up to 1100°C).

Information on the thermal behaviour of the powder is obtained by following the evolution of the temperature difference between the sample studied and a reference sample.
The samples are placed in an enclosure subjected to a predefined programme of temperatures (heating or cooling). This enables us to obtain a differential thermal curve based on the change in the chemical composition or the crystal structure of the sample.

SDTech Micro is committed to completing your TGA analyses within 48 hours following receipt of your samples.
DSC and DTA analyses require 7 to 10 days.

Surface analysis

Further information

Surface analysis


The BET method provides better understanding of particle surface.

SDTech Micro provides its customers with expertise in the study of powder surface and in particular via :

  • Measurement of the specific surface area of particles
  • Evaluation of porosity (pore volume, pore size distribution).

SDTech Micro has a Micromeritics 3Flex Surface Characterization Analyzer for this purpose.

Function

This equipment measures the adsorption and desorption of an inert gas (e.g. nitrogen) on porous particles. The isotherm obtained enables the calculation of various parameters which characterise the surface of a powder:
Starting from the volume of gas forming a monomolecular layer on the surface of the particles, the device calculates the specific surface area of a sample. The volume of the pores can be calculated via capillary condensation.
This data makes it possible to evaluate the surface condition of a powder and to understand its behaviour. Physical and chemical properties such as solubility, adsorption, reactivity, formability and formulation in various dosage forms are all dependent on surface properties.

Specifications

The measurement of the specific surface area makes it possible to evaluate the entire surface available for interactions with other molecules.
The higher the specific surface area, the more the powder interacts with its environment and the more reactive it is.
The size distribution of the pores influences the rate at which molecules can penetrate the interior of the pores, the rate of adsorption and desorption and, therefore, the reactivity.

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