Particle Size and Shape Analyser

Instrument for particle size and shape characterisation of natural and industrial granular materials e.g.:

-Volcanic flow particles (ash, lapilli, pumice, scoria etc.) derived from pyroclastic density currents, fallout deposits, lahars and debris flows.

-Industrial particulate materials relevant to construction.

-Soils

-Construction materials (concretes, mortars, lightweight aggregates, composites)

-Agricultural amendments and granules (including Biochar)

-Polymer/composite additives

-Energy storage materials (electrodes, conductive carbons)

Materials will range from coarse granules to fine powders, typically irregular, porous, low-density and black.

Essential requirements (minimum)

Measurement capability

-Measures both particle size distribution and particle shape in one instrument or tightly integrated system.

-Image-based technique (e.g. dynamic image analysis or equivalent) suitable for irregular, opaque, carbonaceous particles.

-Provides at least:

-Size metrics: equivalent diameter, D10/D50/D90, full distribution.

-Shape metrics: aspect ratio, circularity/roundness, and at least one compactness/solidity/convexity parameter.

Size range and performance

-Usable size range:

-Lower limit ≤ 1μm

-Upper limit ≥ 5 mm

-Capable of analysing polydisperse samples in a single run.

-At least 50,000 particles analysed per standard measurement (for powders).

-Repeatability better than 3 % RSD on D10/D50/D90 for suitable reference materials.

Sample handling and dispersion

-Dry dispersion unit for low-density, porous, angular powders and granules:

-Controlled feed (e.g. vibratory feeder or equivalent).

-Adjustable dispersion energy/pressure.

-Wet dispersion capability:

-Recirculating wet cell for suspensions of soils, biochar and carbon powders.

-Compatibility with at least water and common alcohols (e.g. ethanol or isopropanol).

Shape analysis and classification

-Shape parameters computed for all measured particles or size classes.

-Ability to filter and analyse particles by size and/or shape (e.g. size range, aspect ratio range).

-Display and export of representative particle images for documentation and publications.

Software, data handling and reporting

-Method/SOP editor for storing and recalling measurement conditions.

-Export of size and shape data in standard formats (e.g. CSV, Excel).

-Overlay and comparison of multiple measurements.

-Configurable reports (number/area/volume distributions, cumulative and density plots, basic shape statistics).

Calibration and practical aspects

-Calibration/verification with traceable particle size standards in relevant ranges.

-Documented traceability to relevant particle sizing standards (ISO/ASTM or equivalent).

-Design suitable for dusty, abrasive, black powders, with straightforward cleaning of the dispersion path.

-Enclosed optics and standard laser/electrical safety compliance.

-Access to local service and technical support.

3. Desirable (nice-to-have) features

Extended capabilities

-Integrated laser diffraction module (wet and/or dry) using the same dispersion units, providing sub-micron coverage (≈0.1 μm or lower).

-Dedicated fibre/rod analysis (length, width, L/W ratio) for fibrous chars/carbon fibres.

-Extended upper size limit to ≥ 10 mm for large granules and aggregates.

-Interchangeable optics/lenses to optimise measurements for fine powders vs coarse granules.

Advanced dispersion and handling

-Multiple dry disperser configurations (gentle and aggressive).

-Integrated anti-static measures (e.g. ioniser) for very fine, low-density powders.

-Low-volume wet cells (few mL) for expensive or low-yield materials.

-Integrated, controllable ultrasonic dispersion (power and time) with logging.

Automation and integration

-Optional autosampler for unattended measurement of multiple samples.

-API or scripting interface for method control and automated data extraction.

-Database/LIMS connectivity for long-term storage and retrieval of results.

Robustness

-Wear-resistant materials in nozzles and flow paths.

-Design that minimises cross-contamination.