CONTEXT

The existing characterization methods allowing the measurement of particle size distribution function have a very low sensitivity for nano-particles.
This invention provides in-situ characterization of a powder with high stability especially for nano-particles in dry environments.

TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION

Sedimentation consists on observing the fall of objects under the effect of the surrounding environment. For small particles this effect can slower the falling.
This invention uses the principle of sedimentation to observe the velocity of very small particles and then calculate the particle-size distribution.
Under the effect of plasma, the powder is trapped and kept static. After plasma extinction, the sedimentation process starts under the effect of the gravity and the surrounding gas.
In a given environment, it was demonstrated that the velocity of particles stabilises rapidly and its value depends only on particle radius.
A laser is used to observe the sedimentation process. After calculation, the particle size distribution function is determined.

DEVELOPMENT STAGE

The laboratory can provide a demonstration of the performance for this method.
Based on the same invention, a more simple, stable and sensitive method is currently under development.

BENEFITS

As a method for determining the particle-size distribution function, this invention can provide:
Results with high accuracy for nano-particles,
in-situ characterisation and
in dry environment

INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS

This invention provides quantitative characterizations of dry processes in which nano/micro particles are involved.
The main application of this patent is in-situ sampling and characterisation for nano/micro particles synthesis devices.

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