Static LS
Static Light Scattering (SLS) is where we measure the intensity of laser light scattered from a sample at an angle.
Static light scattering (SLS) is used to measure absolute molecular weight using the relationship between the intensity of light scattered by a molecule and its molecular weight and size, as described by the Rayleigh theory. In the simplest terms, Rayleigh theory says that larger molecules scatter more light than smaller molecules from a given light source and that the intensity of the scattered light is proportional to the molecule’s molecular weight. A fuller description is as usual given by Wikipedia.
There are two ways to measure absolute molecular weight by SLS:
- Batch measurement using a cuvette as with the Zetasizer Nano, uV or ZSP instruments
- In combination with a chromatography instrument as with a Zetasizer uV or S on line or using a dedicated Viscotek LALLS or SEC MALS detector.
