Determination of Particle Size Distribution and Electrokinetic Properties with the AcoustoSizer in Comparison with Other Methods

The characterization of suspensions in process concentration is an important task for the optimization of handling and product properties. Only very few instruments are available. The AcoustoSizer (ACS) (Colloidal Dynamics PTY Ltd.) uses the so-called electrokinetic sonic amplitude (ESA) for particle size and zeta potential determination. In this work, the results obtained at moderate concentrations were compared with results of other instruments mostly working with dilute suspensions. For the electrokinetic investigations three methods (beside the ACS) were used: electroacoustics (ESA8000, Matec Applied Sciences), microelectrophoresis (Zetamaster, Malvern Instruments) and streaming current measurements (Particle Charge Detector PCD 03-pH, Miitek). For particle size determination different measuring techniques were applied: laser diffraction spectroscopy (Mastersizer S, Malvern Instruments), dynamic light scattering (Ultra Fine Particle Analyser, Leeds and Northrup), sedimentation analysis (Sedigraph 5000 D, Micromeritics) and scanning electron microscopy. Mainly three powders were used in the investigations: Monospher M1200 silica (Merck), Selectipur titania (Merck) and Aluminiumoxid C alumina (Degussa). The agreement between the different methods for both particle size and zeta potential measurements was excellent. Especially for the electrokinetic investigations, careful sample preparation is needed. The procedure must not change the equilibria determining the physical and chemical state of the suspension.