Zetasizer

Malvern’s Zetasizer famously uses Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) to size particle in suspension in the sub-micron size range.

The fundemental principle is to detect flashes of laser light scattered by randomly moving particles and use Stokes-Einstein calculate the hydrodynamic diameters from their velocity. But take a look at the table below, Zetasizer models do so much more.

Zetasizer  is the best known name in sub-micron particle sizing. Zetasizer systems have been in use since the early 1990’s and  are simply the best performing, easiest to use and best selling DLS systems in the world. Core to the current series is the Zetasizer Nano – a compact instrument in various optical configurations.

First are the laser backscatter designs of the Nano S and the Nano ZS which have incredible sensitivity. By moving the point of the measurement zone they also have less dependance on concentration than other instruments. These systems size from 0.3nm (r) to a sample dependant 10 micron (d) upper limit.

Zetapotential measurement in Nano Z series, based on electrophoretic light scattering and a patented M3/PALS technique work with particles up to 100 microns (d). With a range of cells from the unique folded/disposable Zeta cell to robust dip cells, high concentration cells and a new solid surface Zp cell, the Zetasizer Nano Z, ZS and ZS90 are the systems of choice for Zetapotential investigations. With accessories like the dedicated AutoTitrator you can fully characterise your suspension system and maximise Zetapotential and particle size for sample stability or tailored delivery systems.

A further addition is the unique Zetasizer uV that has special fibre optics and a cell design for sample volumes as low as 2 microlitres in batch mode or 8 microlitres in a flow cell. The Zetasizer uV was designed for Protein biotechnology applications.  Zetasizer uV speed and small cell volume make it ideal be added to your SEC system for the flowing detection of particle size and molecular weights of proteins. The Zetasizer APS uses similar technology with an automated plate sampling system to provide a screening system for 96 or 384 well plates. Samples as small as 20 uL are taken for Z average particle size and Polydispersity measurements – and can be returned to the specified microtitre plate well.