Particle Size and Shape Analyser

Description

Instrument for particle size and shape characterisation of natural and industrial granular materials. Lot 1: Instrument for particle size and shape characterisation of natural and industrial granular materials e.g.: -Volcanic flow particles (ash, lapilli, pumice, scoria etc.) derived from pyroclastic density currents, fallout deposits, lahars and debris flows. -Industrial particulate materials relevant to construction. -Soils -Construction materials (concretes, mortars, lightweight aggregates, composites) -Agricultural amendments and granules (including Biochar) -Polymer/composite additives -Energy storage materials (electrodes, conductive carbons) Materials will range from coarse granules to fine powders, typically irregular, porous, low-density and black. Essential requirements (minimum) Measurement capability -Measures both particle size distribution and particle shape in one instrument or tightly integrated system. -Image-based technique (e.g. dynamic image analysis or equivalent) suitable for irregular, opaque, carbonaceous particles. -Provides at least: -Size metrics: equivalent diameter, D10/D50/D90, full distribution. -Shape metrics: aspect ratio, circularity/roundness, and at least one compactness/solidity/convexity parameter. Size range and performance -Usable size range: -Lower limit ≤ 1μm -Upper limit ≥ 5 mm -Capable of analysing polydisperse samples in a single run. -At least 50,000 particles analysed per standard measurement (for powders). -Repeatability better than 3 % RSD on D10/D50/D90 for suitable reference materials. Sample handling and dispersion -Dry dispersion unit for low-density, porous, angular powders and granules: -Controlled feed (e.g. vibratory feeder or equivalent). -Adjustable dispersion energy/pressure. -Wet dispersion capability: -Recirculating wet cell for suspensions of soils, biochar and carbon powders. -Compatibility with at least water and common alcohols (e.g. ethanol or isopropanol). Shape analysis and classification -Shape parameters computed for all measured particles or size classes. -Ability to filter and analyse particles by size and/or shape (e.g. size range, aspect ratio range). -Display and export of representative particle images for documentation and publications. Software, data handling and reporting -Method/SOP editor for storing and recalling measurement conditions. -Export of size and shape data in standard formats (e.g. CSV, Excel). -Overlay and comparison of multiple measurements. -Configurable reports (number/area/volume distributions, cumulative and density plots, basic shape statistics). Calibration and practical aspects -Calibration/verification with traceable particle size standards in relevant ranges. -Documented traceability to relevant particle sizing standards (ISO/ASTM or equivalent). -Design suitable for dusty, abrasive, black powders, with straightforward cleaning of the dispersion path. -Enclosed optics and standard laser/electrical safety compliance. -Access to local service and technical support. 3. Desirable (nice-to-have) features Extended capabilities -Integrated laser diffraction module (wet and/or dry) using the same dispersion units, providing sub-micron coverage (≈0.1 μm or lower). -Dedicated fibre/rod analysis (length, width, L/W ratio) for fibrous chars/carbon fibres. -Extended upper size limit to ≥ 10 mm for large granules and aggregates. -Interchangeable optics/lenses to optimise measurements for fine powders vs coarse granules. Advanced dispersion and handling -Multiple dry disperser configurations (gentle and aggressive). -Integrated anti-static measures (e.g. ioniser) for very fine, low-density powders. -Low-volume wet cells (few mL) for expensive or low-yield materials. -Integrated, controllable ultrasonic dispersion (power and time) with logging. Automation and integration -Optional autosampler for unattended measurement of multiple samples. -API or scripting interface for method control and automated data extraction. -Database/LIMS connectivity for long-term storage and retrieval of results. Robustness -Wear-resistant materials in nozzles and flow paths. -Design that minimises cross-contamination.