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Development of a standard method for nanoparticle sizing by using the angular dependence of dynamic light scattering
Kayori Takahashi1, Haruhisa Kato, Shinichi Kinugasa
1Polymer Standards Section, Materials Characterization Division, National Metrology Institute of Japan, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan. kayori.takahashi@ni.aist.go.jp
A new dynamic light scattering method accurately sizes nanoparticles by analyzing angular dependence and particle interactions. This technique eliminates interference from electrostatic forces, providing reliable nanoparticle size measurements.
Area of Science:
- Physical Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Accurate nanoparticle sizing is crucial for understanding material properties and performance.
- Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) is a common technique, but particle interactions can affect accuracy.
- Electrostatic interactions in suspensions can complicate DLS measurements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a standard method for nanoparticle sizing using the angular dependence of dynamic light scattering.
- To accurately measure diffusion coefficients considering concentration and scattering angle effects.
- To eliminate the influence of long-range electrostatic interactions for precise sizing.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a high-resolution dynamic light-scattering instrument for precise measurements.
- Measured short-time correlation functions at seven scattering angles and five concentrations.
- Employed simulation to calculate dynamic structure factors for long-range interactions.
- Extrapolated data to infinite dilution and low angles to correct for interactions.
Main Results:
- Accurately measured diffusion coefficients for polystyrene latex suspensions.
- Observed properties characteristic of polystyrene latex particles with electrostatic interactions.
- Successfully eliminated the effects of long-range interactions through extrapolation.
- Achieved accurate nanoparticle sizes consistent with other measurement techniques.
Conclusions:
- The developed dynamic light scattering method provides accurate nanoparticle sizing.
- Accounting for angular dependence and electrostatic interactions is key to precise measurements.
- The method's results are validated by differential mobility analyzer and pulsed-field gradient nuclear magnetic resonance.
