This seminar is designed for scientists tasked with creating new particle size methods, but is also appropriate for analysts running the method. Development of a new method must take into account any instrument setting that could affect the final result.

Topics covered include:

• Choice of refractive index
• Pump and stirrer settings
• Use of ultrasound
• Effect of air pressure Concentration effects
• Reproducibility guidelines

For the purposes of this seminar we define nano-particles as any two phase system where the size scale of the dispersed phase is less than 100 nm. Several techniques can characterize particle size in this range, sometimes making the choice of the best technology difficult. This seminar reviews the techniques operating in the nano-scale and provides examples of successful application for each.

Topics covered include:

• Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS)
• Static light scattering
• Acoustic spectroscopy
• Zeta potential
• Data interpretation

Particle size analysis of a geologic area can reveal critical information about the region’s formation, history and climate. Particle characterization is an important tool for studying changes in geology and climate over time, mode of formation, and current environmental effects related to pollution transport, erosion, and sediment transport. This seminar describes the various techniques used for particle characterization of soils and sediments and presents examples analyzed in our own applications lab as well as from the literature.

Topics covered include:

• Classification models
• Laser diffraction analysis
• Dynamic image analysis
• Sample preparation and testing

The pharmaceutical industry has demanding requirements for particle characterization due to the difficulty of the samples and requirements from regulatory authorities. This seminar reviews the regulatory environment and provides an outlook towards future requirements. A connection is made between the effect of particle size on product performance and it’s impact on method development and setting specifications.

Topics covered include:

• FDA and USP expectations and tests
• How particle size impacts product performance
• Analytical techniques
• Setting specification
• Method development and validation