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Measurement of Particle Size Distribution in Turbid Solutions by Dynamic Light Scattering Microscopy
Published on: January 9, 2017
Miniaturized dynamic light scattering instrumentation for use in microfluidic applications.
Thomas Q Chastek1, Kathryn L Beers, Eric J Amis
1Polymers Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899-8542, USA.
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|August 4, 2007
Summary
Miniaturized dynamic light scattering (DLS) instruments with microfluidics accurately measure nanoparticle sizes (10-100 nm) in small volumes. These devices enable rapid, high-throughput analysis of polymer solutions and temperature-dependent transitions.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) is a crucial technique for determining particle size distribution.
- Traditional DLS instruments often require larger sample volumes and can be time-consuming for high-throughput analysis.
- Miniaturization and integration of microfluidics offer potential for faster, more efficient DLS measurements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and present five novel designs for miniaturized dynamic light scattering (DLS) instruments.
- To demonstrate the capability of these instruments for accurate nanoparticle size determination in various solvents.
- To showcase the utility of these instruments for high-throughput analysis of complex solution properties.
Main Methods:
- Incorporation of microfluidic flow for sample handling within the DLS instrument.
- Direct embedding of fiber optic probes into the microfluidic sample stream.
- Integration of small stir bars for in-situ solution blending and temperature control.
- Utilizing multiangle DLS measurements for enhanced data acquisition.
Main Results:
- Accurate determination of particle sizes in the 10-100 nm range for samples in organic and aqueous solvents.
- Successful analysis of micelle to unimer transitions in block copolymers using minimal sample mass (<20 mg).
- Identification of critical micelle temperature for a triblock copolymer through integrated temperature control.
- Demonstrated high-throughput capability for analyzing solution properties via systematic solvent blending.
Conclusions:
- Miniaturized DLS instruments with microfluidics provide accurate and efficient particle sizing.
- These instruments are well-suited for analyzing complex solution behaviors, such as polymer transitions, with minimal sample.
- The developed designs offer significant advantages in speed, sample volume reduction, and analytical versatility for DLS applications.
