Partica Laser Diffraction and Dynamic Imaging Particle Size and Shape Analyzer

Laser Diffraction and Dynamic Imaging Particle Size and Shape Analyzer

Integrating Laser Diffraction particle size distribution measurement with dynamic imaging particle shape analysis enables faster, more comprehensive particle characterization.

Partica is a flagship platform that combines two complementary measurement techniques—laser diffraction/scattering and dynamic imaging—in a single instrument. By consolidating these capabilities into one system and capturing particle size distribution (via laser diffraction) and particle shape information (via dynamic imaging) simultaneously, Partica dramatically reduces overall measurement time, streamlines R&D and QC workflows, and helps save valuable lab and production-floor space.

*Note: The product release and distribution may differ depending on the regions and countries

Key features

All-in-one system combines laser diffraction/scattering particle size distribution measurement and dynamic imaging–based particle shape analysis

Two-camera configuration enables particle imaging across a wide size range

Supports particle size and shape analysis for multiple sample forms, including liquids, slurries, and powders

Highly customizable, scalable platform designed for maximum expandability

Segment: Scientific

Division: Particle Characterization

Manufacturing Company: HORIBA, Ltd.

Features
Specifications

Laser Diffraction and Dynamic Imaging Particle Size and Shape Analyzer - optimized as one analyzer

By consolidating both techniques into a single system, Partica significantly reduces total measurement time, improves efficiency in R&D and quality control in a significantly smaller footprint.
It supports particle size and shape analysis across a broad range of sample types and concentrations—from water-soluble materials such as pharmaceuticals and foods, to dry powders, and high-solids samples such as battery materials.

Particle size and shape analysis for a wide range of sample forms, including liquids, slurries, and powders

For laser diffraction, Partica builds on industry-leading measurement accuracy (within ±0.6% of certified reference particle standards) and a wide measurement range (10 nm to 5 mm). Further refinements to the optical system also deliver increased sensitivity.*
For dynamic imaging, high-resolution optics capture detailed particle shape information from approximately 1 µm up to the millimeter scale.
For shape analysis, the system extracts more than 30 particle shape parameters, including equivalent diameter, minimum/maximum (Feret) diameter, circularity, and aspect ratio.

*Based on HORIBA’s internal research (as of December 2025)

【Application by Partica technology】Silica slurry quality analysis

Particle size and distribution analysis are enhanced by using multiple technologies, delivering a more powerful overview of the material testing. Here is an example of a combination of static light scattering and imaging technology that complements one technique. This silica slurry analysis, comparing both technologies, reveals very few large contaminants or agglomerated particles while providing detailed characterization data that can help identify and resolve potential issues during the manufacturing quality control process.

Partica has simultaneous dual‑mode analysis combines laser diffraction measurement with particle imaging, delivering complementary data in a single test.

Two-camera system captures particle images across a wide size range

By incorporating two cameras with different resolutions, the system enables wide-range measurements—from approximately 1 µm to several millimeters.
It acquires 300 frames per second at maximum, allowing tens of thousands of particles to be analyzed in a short time.
It eliminates the need for time-consuming hardware changes such as switching microscope objectives or replacing apertures required in Coulter counter–based methods.

Product video

Watch video

Model		LA-1000 series	LA-970 series
Measurement principle	DIA	Dynamic imaging analysis	_-
Measurement principle	LD	Mie scattering and fraunhofer diffraction
Total measurement range		0.01 - 8000 μm	0.01 - 5000 μm
Measurement range (Wet)	DIA	0.3 - 3000 μm*	-
Measurement range (Wet)	LD	0.01 - 3000 μm
Measurement range (Dry)	DIA	1.1 - 8000 μm*	-
Measurement range (Dry)	LD	0.1 - 5000 μm
Light sources		LD (650 nm): 5 mW, LED (405 nm): Maximum 10 mW
Number of cameras		2 (Dual camera system)	-
Camera performance		Maximum 300 fps	-
Digital resolution		Minimum 0.3 μm	-
Measurement parameters		More than 30 image analysis parameters	-
Dimensions and weight **		720 mm (W) x 565 mm (D) x 470 mm (H), Approximately 56 kg
Optional accessories		Dry measurement unit, MiniFlow unit, Fraction cell, High concentration cell, Paste cell

* Depends on shape
** Dimensions and weight exclude pipework and other protrusions, and optional accessories.

Optional Accessories

MiniFlow (Circulation system)		Small-volume circulation with organic solvents. Measurement needs as little as 35 mL of solvent (180 mL with conventional circulation systems). Dispersion is possible with the built-in ultrasonic probe.
Dry Powder Feeder		The Dry Powder Feeder Unit can measure samples in a powder state. It supports both non-dispersed measurement by free fall and forced-dispersion measurement using compressed air.
High Concentration Cell*		The High Concentration Cell is able to measure close to original concentration with low dilution or without dilution. Measure Inks, paints, pigments, emulsions without dilution. Positive and negative electrode materials of secondary batteries, etc. Observe changes in the agglomeration state based on concentration, etc. Agglomerated was found when a battery was measured near to original concentration.
Paste Cell*		The Paste Cell can measure undiluted samples or samples dispersed in a viscous medium. Microparticles dispersed in high-viscosity samples or polymers. Magnetic powder: Measure magnetic powder by dispersing it in viscous oil to prevent re-agglomeration.
Fraction Cell		The Fraction Cell can take measurement with samples as small as only 5 mL, minimize the amount of dispersant. The Fraction Cell is ideal when the sample is extremely small or you need to recover the entire sample. Measurement range: 0.01-1000 µm, suits organic solvents Cell volumes: 5 mL, 10 mL, 15 mL Rare sample Measurements with highly volatile solvent