The Zetasizer Nano system from Malvern Instruments offers a solution for particle characterisation.
The instrument includes the hardware and software for combined dynamic, static and electrophoretic light scattering measurements.
The Zetasizer Nano satisfies the requirements associated with stimulus-responsive microgels, known as 'smart polymers'.
Microgels are particles of cross-linked polymer networks dispersed in a medium, such as water.
These polymers, which range from 100nm to 1um in diameter, can undergo rapid, reversible and dramatic phase transitions when triggered by slight environmental variations in temperature, pH or ionic strength.
Medical applications for smart polymers range from diagnosis to the distribution of drugs and actuators (such as artificial muscles and valves), while other sectors are benefiting from technologies for microelectronic sensors and environmentally adaptive clothing.
The Zetasizer Nano series enables the study of very small, weakly scattering particles such as polymers at low concentrations.
Its arrangement of optics is intended to maximise the detection of scattered light while maintaining signal quality.
The range of sample properties available for measurement with the Zetasizer Nano system includes particle size, molecular weight and zeta potential.
The instrument features a cell chamber and offers measurement in the size range of 0.6nm to 6um and a concentration range of 0.1mg/ml lysozyme to 40 per cent w/v.
