Particle size distribution with TEM

The particle size distribution (PSD) and shapes of the particles are determined using image analysis. The method is suitable for particles sized 10 to 3,000 µm. Image analysis characterizes particle shapes, such as fibers, rods, and crystals, that cannot be analyzed meaningfully with traditional devices, such as laser diffraction or dynamic light scattering. Depending on the particle shapes, results typically include size distribution for length, width, and equivalent circular area (ECA) diameter.

Imaging of liposome powders or dispersions with transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The analysis can be used to prove that liposome particles used in cosmetic, food, and supplement applications have the characteristic spherical bilayer structure. Sample preparation can be performed using either one of the following techniques:  Negative staining using a custom protocol specifically designed to minimize damage to fragile liposome particles. This is preferred if the concentration of particles is low or unknown. , Cryo preparation (plunge freezing), which is even less likely to damage the particles, but requires them to be present in higher concentrations.. The results of the analysis will include TEM images taken at several different magnifications. If feasible, the results will also include a statement on particle structure that distinguishes between a liposome and a lipid nanoparticle, along with an estimated particle concentration based on the average number of particles in the imaged area.

Cryo-SEM imaging with EDX elemental mapping for fragile samples that require cryogenic preparation to withstand the SEM vacuum and electron beam. The analysis includes the following steps: Cryo-fixing of the sample., Imaging of the sample surface with a scanning electron microscope., EDX map for elemental composition.. The results will include 10–20 SEM images with annotations showing the observed features. 1–2 EDX elemental maps will also be provided, depending on the magnification.

Environmental SEM is used to image samples in their natural, wet or non-conductive states at different relative humidity levels up to a level of 90%. The method can also be used to observe real-time, in situ dynamic processes. A cooling stage is typically used to regulate vapor pressure and maintain sample hydration during imaging. The sample is cooled, and the chamber pressure is adjusted in increments, with several images collected at different pressure levels. A tiltable cooling stage can be used to collect images at different angles to the surface. The maximum sample size depends on the substrate used: Glass substrates with a diameter of 2 cm or less. , Conductive substrates with a diameter of 6 mm or less.. The imaging process can be customized based on your specific sample type and research goals. Contact us for more information and to request a quote.

Imaging of the sample using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX or EDS). Typically, several images are taken with varying magnifications to get a good overview of the sample. An EDX mapping, line scan, or point measurement is collected to measure the sample composition (elemental at.% or wt.%). Non-conductive samples can be prepared with a metallic coating. For cross-section measurement, additional preparation might be needed: FIB, BIB, or freeze fracturing.

We offer several analysis techniques for the quantification and characterization of microplastics present in biological samples of human origin. Depending on the specific matrix and analysis goals, one of the following methods can be selected: µRaman spectroscopy LOD: 5 µm, Results: Number of microplastic particles per 1 mL or 1 g of sample, as well as information on plastic types and particle size in categories.., µFTIR spectroscopy LOD: 10 µm - 20 µm, Results: Number of microplastic particles per 1 mL or 1 g of sample, as well as information on plastic types and particle size in categories. (See example test results: Microplastics in blood with µFTIR)., py-GC/MS LOD: 0.3 µm, Results: Concentration by weight of nanoplastic and microplastic particles per 1 mL or 1 g. This includes differentiation of the plastic types detected, but no particle size characteristics... Due to the complex matrix, the appropriate digestion, homogenization, and filtration steps will be decided on a case-by-case basis. The extent of sample preparation required may affect the price. Samples of human origin, including blood, must typically be packed and shipped with dry ice. We offer the necessary logistics services and support for handling these kinds of samples. The price range displayed applies to typical batch sizes of 25–75 samples. Please contact our experts through the form below to request an offer for your analysis project.

During this analysis, the surface of a smooth and hard sample is imaged with an atomic force microscope (AFM). Topological images are typically provided from three locations around the sample. The measurement area is 5 x 5 micrometers, if not otherwise agreed. Measurements are typically done using the following instrument: Bruker Dimension Icon.

Analysis of the specific surface area of porous, solid materials according to the BET (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller) theory. Analysis can be performed with N2 or Kr gases, depending on the expected surface area of the material. BET curve and the specific surface area (in m2/g) are reported. The required sample amount depends on the expected surface area. As a rule of thumb, at least 5 m2 of surface area should be available for measurement. The following gas adsorption devices are used for this measurement: Micromeritics Gemini VII 2390, Micromeritics ASAP 2020, Micromeritics TriStar II 3020, Anton Paar Nova 800.

In air jet sieve analysis, a rotating jet of air disperses a powder sample on a sieve, causing fine particles to pass through the mesh while oversize particles are retained. The mass percentage of particles retained on the sieve is determined and reported. The measurement can be repeated using multiple sieves of different mesh sizes to determine the particle size distribution characteristics of the sample. Several mesh sizes down to 20 µm are available. The displayed price applies to non-GMP analysis of a single sample with one sieve. The analysis is also available under GMP and ISO 17025 accreditation, and an expedited turnaround time can be arranged upon request. Please contact our experts for a quote.

Determination of particle size distribution (PSD) by Laser Diffraction (LD). Analysis can be performed on dispersions or solids that can be dispersed in water or organic solvents. The method can analyze particle sizes from ~0.010 µm to 2000 µm. The test report will include a particle size distribution graph, values for volumetric mean = D[4,3], and the following percent finers (percent finers represent the amount of the material from the sample that is smaller than a certain size): Dv(10) / D(v,0.1) / 10 % , Dv(25) / D(v,0.25) / 25 % , Dv(50) / D(v,0.5) / 50 % = median, Dv(75) / D(v,0.75) / 75 % , Dv(90) / D(v,0.9) / 90 %.