Fiber-optic particle size monitor based on white-light scattering

A new fiber-optic particle size monitor for in situ measurement based on white-light scattering is presented. The particle size is determined from the ratio of two scattered light intensities taken at two wavelength bands. By using white-light scattering, the proper wavelength bands in the broad spectral region can be selected in accordance with the particle size that is to be measured. Then the measurable particle size range can be expanded and the particle size can be measured precisely. The performance of this particle size monitor is theoretically discussed, and experimental data from polystyrene latex suspensions are shown to confirm its operation.