380 Submicron Particle Sizer
The standard NICOMP 380 comes equipped with a 15 mW laser diode and
PMT detector with an optical fiber set at 90 degrees. Sample is introduced
with drop-in cells. The 380 is the only dynamic light scattering instrument
designed using a modular approach. Its capabilities can be enhanced
by adding one or more accessory modules. Other options include:
Autodilution
This patented feature eliminates the need for manual dilution of
concentrated samples. Autodilution makes particle size analysis quick
and easy, with no training required. Results are highly reproducible,
especially useful for multiple users.
High Powered Lasers/APD Detector
The Nicomp 380 can be equipped with various high-powered lasers as
well as a high-gain Avalanche Photodiode Detector to increase signal-to-noise
and sensitivity in systems that do not scatter light well. Proteins,
micelles, other macromolecular-based systems, and nanoparticles are
often dilute (1 mg/ml or less) and are made of atoms that do not scatter
light well. The high-powered laser options offer the ability to obtain
accurate results in a short period of time.
Zeta Potential
The Nicomp 380 particle size analysis can be complimented with a
module to allow zeta potential to be measured. Knowledge on the interactions
between particles can be useful in colloidal stability determination.
The larger the zeta potential, the larger the repulsive forces between
particles, the more stable a dispersion should be.
Multiangle
Particles larger than 200 nm do not scatter light isotropically in
all directions. It is possible to make DLS measurements more sensitive
to certain sized particles by changing the angle of detection. The
Nicomp 380 can be equipped with a mini-goniometer that moves the optical
fiber between 12 and 150 degrees by 1-degree increments.
Autosampler
Offers the ability to run samples in batches unattended. Adding the
27-sample Autosampler module can increase the efficiency of data production
and allows users to get more out of the Nicomp.
