Particle size reduction, while used across multiple industries, is not as well-known as it should be- particularly considering its critical role in the synthesis of numerous products. When a scientist or company takes on a process that requires this technique, the path to achieving a high quality product may not be well-defined. Here we present key points of the particle size reduction process to set you up for implementation of a uniform and consistent particle reduction process.
Know your sample
The product you are looking to yield will hugely impact the starting components. For example, emulsion and dispersion synthesis requires incorporation of a surfactant; without it, the sample will have a high surface tension. Cell lysis, another common technique, may target specific intracellular proteins, DNA, or other molecules. Depending on the molecule of interest, one or more buffers, along with other supporting chemicals, may be needed. Knowing the chemical and physical properties of your sample beforehand will alleviate much troubleshooting and time wasted.
Select a machine that fits your sample’s needs
Reduction of a droplet’s size is a physical, as opposed to chemical, change. It is therefore necessary that the machine you select does not impose heat or cold during the particle size reduction process, so as not to change your sample’s chemical makeup. Additionally, if you require a specific particle size, select a machine that can at least match its needs. For example, basic blenders will achieve lower quality kitchen results, whereas high pressure homogenizers are among the highest tier of laboratory equipment.
Use equipment that imparts multiple mechanical forces
Homogenization, particularly high pressure homogenization, works by imparting impressive amounts of pressure on a sample while it is being forced through a narrow space. While most mixing methods impart only a single mechanical force, a handful of available equipment uses multiple forces, like turbulence, cavitation, shear, and impact. The impact of multiple, as opposed to one, mechanical forces, is smaller particle size and enhanced uniformity.
Pion: Particle Size Reduction Equipment Recommendation
As you hunt for particle size reduction equipment that will suit your lab’s purposes, consider how the above-listed factors will improve the quality of your products. Although many companies manufacture homogenizers, few are of the high quality needed to achieve reliable and reproducible results. One example of equipment that does meet such expectations is the high pressure homogenizer by Pion.
Pion's BEE brand products are trusted by researchers and lab managers around the world for key benefits, such as production of nano/micro emulsions, dispersions, and suspensions; importantly, this equipment can achieve consistent particle sizes at or below 100 nm, a key benefit for researchers & corporations across a wide variety of industries.
Learn more about Pion's particle size reduction equipment by contacting us today.
