In-Process Particle Sizing by Refractive Index Measurement
Lead Research Organisation:
De Montfort University
Department Name: School of Pharmacy
Abstract
A radical new technique is proposed for in-line process particle measurement at sizes from 0.1micron to 10micron and concentrations up to 50% by volume without interfering in the process. The method involves calculation of optical refractive index of the suspension from critical angle measurements at several wavelengths. This technique requires no light passage through the suspension so its turbidity does not restrict the method. In practice, the critical angle is not clearly marked for turbid suspensions but there is a substantial variation of reflectance in the vicinity of the critical angle.Measuring the suspension refractive index has significant advantages over other widely used non-invasive methods of particle analysis such as spectral extinction and laser diffraction: - The relationship between refractive index and volume fraction is linear for volumetric concentrations up to 50%.- Mie scattering theory can be used to calculate the refractive index of concentrated suspensions of spheres. - Suspension refractive index is sensitive to particle size and size distribution.
Publications
Adrian Tiberiu Salaoru
(2010)
Determination of particle size distribution by refractive index measurement
Description | A prototype instrument has been developed. |
Exploitation Route | several publications and patents have cited the finding of the project. |
Sectors | Chemicals,Healthcare,Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology |
Description | the findings has been patented and papers have been published |
Sector | Chemicals,Healthcare,Manufacturing, including Industrial Biotechology,Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology |
Impact Types | Economic |