Innovation: Isomorphic non-spherical reference particles

Particle shape analysis can be a helpful instrument to estimate and forecast particle behaviour and product properties. It opens up new possibilities for design and selection of suitable particles. Nevertheless available reference particles on the market exhibit a spherical shape. We developed new types of shape-defined microparticles which are characterized by high uniformity and different geometrical shapes.

Characteristics of the Material

Microparticles ready to market are characterized by a prolate spheroidal shape of absolute rotational symmetry, an area equivalent diameter between 25 µm and 35 µm and an aspect ratio in the order of 0.5 to 0.7. Particles are provided as dispersion (in an aqueous solution) or as dry particles. It should be stressed that the dispersed particles may be provided with different convexity (sphericity).
These shape-defined microparticles feature a high degree of isomorphism concerning their size and shape (standard deviation below 15%).

Applications & Benefits

By means of the newly developed shape-defined reference particles the performance of instruments for particle shape determination can be tested and applied algorithms can be validated and optimized for the first time. Furthermore the particles can be utilized in the quality control processes after fabrication of shape analysing instruments at manufacturer site and for performance qualification of the instrument by the user.