Granulometric laboratory analysis

It is a measurement method used to determine the distribution of particle sizes in a material.

Particle size analysis consists of characterizing the size and distribution of particles in a sample, whether solid or liquid.

The goal is to control a product’s physical properties and optimize its manufacturing, quality, and performance.

A particle size distribution test makes it possible to determine the distribution of particle sizes in a powder.

It therefore ensures material quality and optimizes performance in additive manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, or metallurgy. Good control of particle size improves flowability, compaction, and powder reactivity, thereby ensuring better homogeneity and greater efficiency in the final application.

Particle size analysis makes it possible to monitor the quality and performance of powders used in various industrial sectors. Particle size directly influences the flowability, compaction, dissolution, and reactivity of materials.

In additive manufacturing and metallurgy, it ensures proper powder fusion and an optimal surface finish of parts. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is crucial for ensuring the uniform bioavailability of active ingredients. In the food industry, it affects the texture and solubility of ingredients.

This analysis also makes it possible to meet regulatory standards, optimize production processes, and ensure repeatable powder performance.

An unsuitable particle size distribution can cause flow problems, density variations, or compaction defects. This can affect powder performance, particularly in pharmaceuticals or metallurgy.

d90 corresponds to the size below which 90% of the particles in the analyzed sample are found.

A low particle size means that the material’s particles are very fine, often at the micrometric or nanometric scale.

The main parameters are d10, d50 and d90 diameters, which represent the sizes below which 10%, 50% and 90% of the particles are found, respectively. Distribution curves may also be provided.

Particle size is measured by laser diffraction, sieving, sedimentation depending on the required precision and application.

Each technique is suited to specific needs depending on the size and nature of the particles to be analyzed.

Laboratory particle size analysis can be carried out in accordance with established standards and regulations. Two of the main international standards include ISO 13320 and ASTM B822. ISO 13320 sets out guidelines for particle size analysis by laser diffraction, while ASTM B822 applies to dry sieve particle size analysis. By following these standards, laboratories can ensure that their results are consistent and reliable.

Particle size distribution affects product quality by influencing the physical and functional properties of materials in various industries:

1. Pharmaceutical : Affects the dissolution and bioavailability of medicines.
2. Cosmetics : Influences the texture and application of powders and creams.
3. Ceramics : Plays a role in the mechanical strength and finish of parts.
4. Construction : The particle size distribution of sands and gravel determines the strength of concrete.
5. Metallurgy : Affects the melting and solidification of metal powders for additive manufacturing.

Precise particle size distribution ensures optimal performance and consistent quality.

FILAB laboratory adapts particle size analysis according to the materials by choosing the most suitable method for each type of particle. For example, for materials such as sand and gravel, sieving is used. For fine powders, such as in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics sectors, laser diffraction is preferred, offering greater precision. Finally, sedimentation is used to analyze suspended particles, such as those found in slurries or liquid suspensions, with adjustments based on the density and viscosity of the materials.

Particle size analysis relies on different equipment depending on the method used. Laser diffraction uses a laser particle size analyzer that sends a beam of light onto the particles and measures diffraction. Sieving requires a series of standardized sieves and a mechanical shaker to sort particles by size. Finally, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) makes it possible to observe particle morphology and size in detail.

The particle size distribution plays a key role in a material’s porosity and permeability by influencing the arrangement of particles.

Large, uniform particles create greater porosity with large interstitial voids, promoting high permeability. Conversely, fine or variably sized particles reduce these spaces, lowering porosity and limiting fluid flow.

In metallurgy, proper particle size distribution ensures controlled porosity in sintered powders. In the pharmaceutical sector, it affects tablet dissolution. In civil engineering, it impacts the filtration and strength of concrete and ceramics.

In high-pressure laminate (HPL), controlling the particle size of mineral fillers (silica, alumina, calcium carbonate) is essential to ensure the quality, strength and homogeneity of the material.

Controlled particle size helps optimize compaction, thereby reducing surface defects and improving the laminate’s mechanical strength. It also influences porosity, affecting layer adhesion and the durability of the final product.

Granulation makes it possible to homogenize particle size to improve a product’s stability, texture or reactivity.

Yes, using suitable methods such as dynamic light scattering (DLS) or SEM observation. Contact us to define the most suitable method.