The Laboratory Unit of the Council for Geoscience purchased the Mastersizer 2000 laser diffraction particle size and shape analyzer.  The instrument is equipped with liquid and dry dispersion units, which permit measurement of both dry loose powders and liquid dispersions.  Analysis in dry mode is preferred for materials such as cement, metal powders, powder coatings, starch, whilst analysis in wet mode is favoured for materials such as kaolinite, clay, and titanium dioxide.  Shape analysis is also possible over the complete size range for wet dispersions. 

Measuring size range: 0.02 µm to 2,000 µm

Sample types: emulsions, suspensions and dry powders

Shape analysis: for wet dispersions only, from 0.02 µm to 2,000 µm 

Particle size and shape evaluation of geological and manufactured materials for various applications will be provided as a new service to the units of the CGS and to industrial clients in a few months. 

Project leader: Frederic Doucet, Ph.D.