Dynamic Light Scattering
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Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS)

Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) is an analytical technique that measures the size distribution of particles in suspension or polymers in solution by analyzing the Brownian motion of the particles. It is based on the principle that small particles undergo random movement due to their collision with the fast-moving molecules in the liquid. This random movement, known as Brownian motion, is related to the particle size, with smaller particles moving faster than larger ones. By measuring the fluctuations in the scattered light intensity caused by the Brownian motion, DLS can determine the particle size distribution.
In DLS, a monochromatic light source, typically a laser, is directed into the sample solution or suspension. The particles in the solution scatter this light in all directions, and the intensity of the scattered light fluctuates over time due to the Brownian motion of the particles. The scattered light is detected at a specific angle, and the time-dependent fluctuations in the intensity are analyzed to extract information about the particle size distribution. The analysis is based on the fact that the rate of fluctuation is directly related to the particle size – smaller particles move faster, resulting in more rapid fluctuations, while larger particles move slower, leading to slower fluctuations. By mathematically analyzing the autocorrelation function of the scattered light intensity, the diffusion coefficient of the particles can be calculated, which is then used to determine the particle size distribution using the Stokes-Einstein equation.
- Characterization of aerospace coatings and composites
- Analysis of nanoparticle additives in aerospace materials
- Monitoring of particle size in aerospace lubricants
- Characterization of automotive coatings and paints
- Analysis of nanoparticle additives in automotive fluids
- Monitoring of particle size in automotive lubricants
- Characterization of colloidal dispersions and emulsions
- Analysis of polymer molecular weight and size distributions
- Monitoring of reaction processes involving particle size changes
- Characterization of nanoparticle coatings and films
- Analysis of inks and toners for printing applications
- Monitoring of particle size in electronic inks and pastes
- Characterization of nanoparticles for camouflage and stealth applications
- Analysis of explosive mixtures and propellants
- Monitoring of particle size in energetic materials
- Characterization of nanoparticle catalysts and adsorbents
- Analysis of colloidal dispersions in energy storage devices
- Monitoring of particle size in fuel additives and lubricants
- Forensic analysis of trace evidence and particulate matter
- Identification of unknown particulate samples
- Characterization of counterfeit materials and products
- Characterization of nanoparticle phosphors and luminescent materials
- Analysis of colloidal dispersions in LED coatings and encapsulants
- Monitoring of particle size in LED inks and pastes
- Characterization of nanoparticles for drug delivery and imaging
- Analysis of colloidal dispersions in medical coatings and devices
- Monitoring of particle size in pharmaceutical formulations
- Characterization of nanoparticle drug delivery systems
- Analysis of protein aggregation and stability
- Monitoring of particle size in pharmaceutical formulations
- Characterization of nanoparticle additives and fillers
- Analysis of particle size distributions in raw materials
- Monitoring of particle size during material processing
- Characterization of nanoparticles for semiconductor applications
- Analysis of colloidal dispersions in semiconductor inks and pastes
- Monitoring of particle size in semiconductor materials and devices
- Characterization of nanoparticles for optical and magnetic applications
- Analysis of colloidal dispersions in data storage media
- Monitoring of particle size in optical fibers and coatings
- Non-invasive and non-destructive technique
- Rapid and efficient analysis of particle size distributions
- Suitable for a wide range of sample types (solids, liquids, gases)
- Can measure particles from sub-nanometer to micrometer size range
- Provides information on particle size, molecular weight, and aggregation state
- Liquid Sample: 1-5 mL
- Solid Sample: 1-10 mg
- Sample Concentration: The sample should be relatively dilute to minimize multiple scattering effects, with concentrations ranging from 0.1 mg/mL to 10 mg/mL
- Sample Purity: The sample should be free from large particulates or contaminants that could interfere with the measurement.