Laser Diffraction Particle Size Analyzer SALD-2300

Importance of the Topic

Particle size distribution governs critical attributes of powders and suspensions, including dissolution rate, optical properties, flow behavior and mechanical strength. Laser diffraction offers a highly versatile, rapid and non-destructive way to characterize a broad size range (17 nm to 2500 µm) with wet and dry samples. Reliable PSD measurement underpins quality control and process optimization in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, ceramics, coatings and environmental analysis.

Objectives and Overview of the Article

This application note introduces the SALD-2300 Laser Diffraction Particle Size Analyzer, its optional sampling units and software packages. It aims to demonstrate how the system meets ISO 13320 and JIS Z 8825-1 standards, extends concentration and size ranges, enables continuous monitoring, and integrates advanced data-analysis tools to enhance measurement accuracy and repeatability.

Methodology and Used Instrumentation

The SALD-2300 applies the laser diffraction method to reconstruct PSD from scattered light intensity distributions. Conforming to ISO 13320 and JIS Z 8825-1, it uses a 680 nm red semiconductor laser and 84-element detector array (78 forward, 1 side, 5 backward) mounted on an Omnidirectional Shock Absorption Frame (OSAF).

Optional sampling units expand functionality:

• SALD-MS23 sampler for wet measurement (3 selectable volumes, ultrasonication and circulation) covering 17 nm–2500 µm and 0.1 ppm–100 ppm.
• SALD-BC23 batch cell for small volumes (12 mL) and moderate concentrations.
• SALD-HC23S high-concentration cell using glass slides with indentations (6 µL–150 µL) for up to 20 % solids without dilution.
• SALD-DS5S cyclone dry unit with multiple nozzles for powders from 0.3 µm to 2500 µm.

WingSALD II software offers Normal and Advanced calculation modes, automatic refractive-index estimation via the LDR method, SOP-based automation, real-time raw data display, and comprehensive data-analysis modules.

Main Results and Discussion

The SALD-2300 demonstrates:

• Wide concentration range (0.1 ppm–20 %) and continuous measurement at 1 s intervals to capture time-dependent processes without sample alteration.
• High resolution across five decades of particle size using logarithmically spaced detector elements and multiple scattering angles, resolving complex multimodal distributions (e.g. five-peak mixtures).
• Robust reproducibility and reliability thanks to OSAF vibration isolation, self-diagnostics, instrument validation with JIS standard particles, and simultaneous display of raw and processed data for result verification.
• Enhanced sensitivity enabling direct analysis of undiluted high-viscosity samples (hand creams, carbon black dispersions) and low-concentration biological or mineral suspensions (red wine, fine powders).
• Advanced visualization and statistics via overlaid PSDs, 3D graphs, time-series analysis, and batch recalculation (up to 200 datasets).
• Specialized data-analysis functions: scattering angle evaluation, emulation of other instruments, mixture simulation and PSD merging to cover extended size ranges.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Key application areas include:

• Pharmaceuticals – optimizing dissolution, bioavailability and dosage forms.
• Cosmetics – controlling color, gloss, texture and UV protection.
• Food – ensuring consistent mouthfeel, powder flow and stability in beverages.
• Ceramics and coatings – tailoring mechanical strength, porosity and sintering behavior.
• Catalysts – correlating activity with specific surface area and PSD.
• Electronic materials – quality control of films, pigments and conductive powders.
• Soil and civil engineering – assessing ground stability, sediment transport and environmental contamination.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Ongoing integration of inline and at-line process analytics will leverage the SALD-2300’s rapid data acquisition for process control (PAT). Development of AI-driven pattern recognition and cloud-based data management will further automate refractive-index selection and anomaly detection. Miniaturization of sampling modules and enhanced sensitivity detectors promise real-time monitoring of nanoscale processes in biotechnology and materials synthesis.

Conclusion

The SALD-2300 Laser Diffraction Particle Size Analyzer delivers a comprehensive PSD solution, combining wide dynamic range, high resolution, robust repeatability and advanced software tools. Its flexible configuration and rigorous compliance with international standards position it as an essential instrument for research, QA/QC and industrial applications where accurate particle characterization drives product performance and process efficiency.