Laboratory analysis and characterization of a powder
Your needs : to reliably characterize the physicochemical properties of your powders
A powder is an assembly of solid heterogeneous particles dispersed in a continuous gaseous phase, between which a multitude of interactions (e.g. Van der Waals) take place. So, depending on the nature of the powder and its properties, the reactions with its environment can be infinite. It is therefore essential to characterise the physico-chemical properties of a powder in order to make the best use of it in the production process.
Which physicochemical properties are used to characterize a powder?
The physico-chemical properties of powders influence their quality and performance.
Here are some examples of parameters that can be analysed on a powder:
What is a powder test?
Powder testing covers a range of tests used to characterise the physical, chemical and morphological properties of powders. These analyses are essential in many industrial sectors, including metallurgy, pharmaceuticals, chemicals and food processing.
They enable key parameters such as granulometry, particle morphology, bulk density, fluidity, residual moisture and chemical composition to be assessed. The aim is to optimise the performance of powders according to their use, whether in an additive manufacturing process, a coating, a pharmaceutical formulation or a composite material.
Our services relating to powders
For over 30 years, our FILAB laboratory has had the experience and specific analytical equipment to support industrial companies in the characterisation of powders using various analytical techniques:
OUR TECHNICAL RESOURCES
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Measuring the flow velocity of a powder
How do you analyse a powder?
Powder analysis is based on different techniques depending on the properties to be assessed:
- Granulometry and particle distribution: carried out by laser diffraction or sieving to measure particle size.
- Particle morphology and structure: observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
- Bulk density and tap density: assessed to determine the bulk behaviour of the powder.
- Fluidity and flowability: measured by tests such as the Hall or Carney cone to assess flow.
- Hygroscopicity and residual moisture: analysed to anticipate interactions with ambient humidity.
- Chemical composition and impurities: identified using spectrometry (ICP-MS, XRF) or chromatography (GC-MS, LC-MS).
Each analysis method is selected according to the sector of application (pharmaceuticals, chemicals, cosmetics, etc.), to guarantee optimum performance and compliance with industrial requirements.
The support of an expert powder analysis laboratory like FILAB helps you to better understand the strategic issues and changes in your sector. Our specialised engineers will support you throughout the characterisation of your powders in the laboratory. They are available to answer your questions and help you interpret your powder analysis results.
Instruments for the analysis of metal powders :
GranuHeap: measurement of the static properties of a metal powder (angle of repose, static cohesion index).
GranuDrum: measurement of flow properties (flow angle, dynamic cohesion index, angle of first avalanche, powder aeration).
GranuPack: measurement of the dynamic compaction of a metal powder (apparent density, tap density, Hausner ratio, densification dynamics).
GranuFlow: measurement of flow through orifices, a key indicator of powder flowability.
GranuCharge: measurement of the electrostatic properties of metal powders.
FAQ
The analysis of powders must be carried out in a specialised laboratory with the appropriate equipment and expertise in the characterization of materials. The FILAB laboratory offers tailor-made services to meet the needs of industry, with methods validated according to the standards in force (ISO, ASTM, pharmacopoeia, etc.).
These analyses can be carried out for quality control, R&D, problem-solving or regulatory compliance purposes. It is important to choose a laboratory capable of adapting its protocols to the specific characteristics of the powder being analysed and to industrial constraints.
In the FILAB laboratory, we analyse a wide range of powders: metallic powders, ceramic powders, pharmaceutical powders, pigments, food additives and mineral powders.
Granulometry has a direct influence on the flow, compaction and reactivity properties of a powder. Accurate granulometric analysis helps to optimise manufacturing processes, improve end-product quality and ensure compliance with industry standards.
Apparent density reflects the ratio between the volume occupied and the mass of a powder. It influences the stability of mixtures, the dispersion of particles and the filling of moulds or capsules in the pharmaceutical industry.
The specific surface area of a powder plays a key role in its chemical reactivity, adsorption and dispersion. This analysis is particularly important for catalysts, cosmetic additives and energetic materials.
Chemical analysis and the detection of impurities (oxides, metallic contaminants, organic residues) guarantee the quality of powders, particularly for the aerospace, biomedical and food industries.
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and laser diffraction are commonly used to analyse the shape and distribution of particles. These analyses are useful for powders intended for coatings or the chemical industry.
Requirements vary according to the application: ASTM standards for metal powders, pharmacopoeia for pharmaceutical powders, REACH for chemical safety, and ISO 13320 for particle size. Strict controls ensure product conformity.
