Micromeritics Flashcards
Science of small particles and study of particle size distribution
Micromeritics
Unit of Particle Size
Micrometer
Nanometer
Fundamental properties of powders
Particle Size and size distribution
Volume
Number
Shape
Surface Area
Derived Particle Properties
Bulk Density, Granule Volume, Porosity
Methods of particle size determination
Optical Microscopy
Sieving Method
Sedimentation Method
Automated particle Counter
Most accurate method for particle size determination; microscope eyepiece is fitted with a micrometer where the diameter can be measured
Optical Microscopy
Range of Analysis for Optical Microscopy
0.2 um to 100 um
Advantages of Optical Microscopy
Direct observation of shape and size
Aggregation of particles can be detected
The field can be projected and a photograph can be taken
Easy to handle
Disadvantages of Optical Microscopy
Diameter is obtained from only 2D
No estimation of depth or thickness
Slow, tedious, time-consuming
3 Expression of Diameter
Martin’s
Ferret’s
Projected Area of Circle
Distance between pairs of parallel tangents to the projected outline of the particle in fixed directions
Feret’s Diameter
Diameter measured from the length of the particle at the point that divides a particle into two equal projected areas
Martin’s Diameter
Diameter of a circle having the same area as the projected area of the particle resting in stable position
Projected area diameter
Range of analysis of Sieving Method
50um to 1500um
Advantages of Sieving Method
Specially useful for weight distribution
Inexpensive
Simple
Disadvantages of Sieving Method
Sample should be dried every time
Induction of attrition during shaking -> reduction of particle size
Very small particles cannot be used
Used for evaluation of suspension, emulsions, and determination of molecular weight of polymers
Sedimentation Method
Sedimentation Rate is based on
Stoke’s Law
Instrument used in Sedimentation Method
Andreasen Pipet/Apparatus