Apparatus for semi-automatic grain-size separation of small samples
G Meyer1, A Grütter, H R von Gunten
1Anorganisch-chemisches Institut, Universität Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|March 1, 1978
Summary
A new semi-automatic sieving apparatus efficiently separates small granular samples into uniform grain sizes. This method is reproducible, fast, and safe for handling radioactive materials.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Nuclear Engineering
Background:
- Accurate grain-size separation is crucial for studying surface phenomena in fine powders.
- Traditional hand-sieving methods can be time-consuming, imprecise, and pose risks with hazardous materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a novel semi-automatic sieving apparatus for precise granular material separation.
- To evaluate the apparatus's efficiency, reproducibility, and safety, particularly for radioactive samples.
Main Methods:
- Development and implementation of a semi-automatic sieving apparatus.
- Testing with small granular samples (50-500 mg).
- Assessment of separation reproducibility, yield, speed, cleanliness, and operator radiation dose.
Main Results:
- Achieved reproducible separations with over 95% sample recovery.
- Demonstrated suitability for handling highly radioactive materials with low operator radiation doses.
- Showcased faster, cleaner, and more reproducible separations compared to hand-sieving.
Conclusions:
- The semi-automatic sieving apparatus offers a superior method for granular material separation.
- The apparatus is particularly advantageous for research involving fine powders and radioactive materials.
- This technique enhances experimental accuracy and operator safety in materials science and related fields.
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