Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) analysis
What is dynamic light scattering and why use a DLS laboratory?
How does DLS analysis work?
Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) involves projecting a laser beam onto a sample and measuring fluctuations in the intensity of the scattered light. The DLS technique uses this information to calculate the scattering coefficient of each particle present, allowing an estimate of its size, charge, shape and stability. DLS analysis also provides insight into the state of aggregation or other effects on particle behaviour.
Applications of DLS in particle characterization
Dynamic light scattering (DLS) is a technique that allows the measurement of the size and size distribution of molecules and particles generally in the submicron region and, in some cases, below 1 nm. Typical applications of DLS are the characterization of particles, emulsions or molecules that are dispersed or dissolved in a liquid. Dynamic light scattering is particularly useful for the study of macromolecular systems, such as proteins or synthetic polymers.
Advantages of DLS over other techniques
The main advantage of DLS is that it is non-destructive and fast — it provides results in minutes rather than hours as with other techniques such as electron microscopy. By combining measurements at several wavelengths, it can provide even more detailed information about a sample.
FILAB's DLS laboratory services and expertise
Samples we analyse by DLS
FILAB offers Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) size analysis services to characterize colloidal suspensions, polymers, proteins, and other macromolecular systems. Our DLS laboratory supports R&D, quality control, and failure investigation projects across the chemical, pharmaceutical, and materials sectors.
FILAB offers DLS analysis services such as :
- Particle size analysis by DLS
- Particle size measurement by DLS
- Measurement of zeta potential by DLS
- Size measurement from nm
- Size measurement of molecules with MW < 1000 Da
Our complementary services to DLS analysis
At FILAB, DLS analysis is performed using state-of-the-art analytical equipment and a dedicated team of scientists. We integrate DLS with complementary techniques to deliver a complete characterization profile tailored to your regulatory and industrial requirements.
FAQ
Dynamic light scattering (DLS) is a method for analysing the properties of colloidal systems. It consists of measuring fluctuations in the intensity of the scattered light. It measures the speed at which particles move and their scattering coefficient. This provides information about their size, shape and charge. By measuring these parameters over time, changes in the characteristics of the particles can be observed. This allows researchers to study factors such as the state of aggregation or other effects that may influence the behaviour of the system.
Dynamic light scattering is particularly useful for the study of macromolecular systems, such as proteins or synthetic proteins.
Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) involves projecting a laser beam onto a sample and measuring fluctuations in the intensity of the scattered light. The DLS technique uses this information to calculate the scattering coefficient of each particle present, allowing an estimate of its size, charge, shape and stability. DLS analysis also provides insight into the state of aggregation or other effects on particle behaviour. By combining measurements at several wavelengths, it can provide even more detailed information about a sample.
The main advantage of DLS is that it is non-destructive and fast - it provides results in minutes rather than hours as with other techniques such as electron microscopy.
DLS measures particle size by detecting fluctuations in scattered laser light, making it ideal for submicron and nanoparticle analysis. Laser granulometry is based on diffraction patterns and is generally better suited for larger particles, typically from 0.1 µm to several millimetres.
FILAB combines state-of-the-art DLS instrumentation with a multidisciplinary team of scientists. We deliver fast, reliable results and can integrate DLS with SEM, chromatography, and other methods to provide comprehensive material characterization.
DLS provides the hydrodynamic diameter, particle size distribution, polydispersity index, and insights into aggregation, stability, and charge. These parameters are essential for quality control and formulation development.