Particle Size Measurement Techniques: A Review Of Methods And Applications

Abstract

A number of particle sizing techniques are available to measure solid particles median size of nano–scale to centimeter. The techniques cover a wide range of applications in industries where the particle size information is an important parameter in manufacturing process. The particle size measurement (in terms of application) can be categorized into two groups, offline application and on–line measurement. On–line particle size measurement in pneumatic transporter is challenging area in terms of measurement condition, where particles flow homogeneity, humidity, velocity and concentration profile are directly affects the measurement results. All these parameters make difficult the instrumentation design. This paper highlights some of the important instrumentation in particle sizing based on their measurement principle. The measurement methods include physical methods, laser scattering based methods, Image based methods and electrical sensing zone method. In addition, the paper highlights recent innovative on–line measurement techniques used in particle size measurement. Key words: Sedimentation; sieving; laser scattering; phase–Doppler; morphology; coulter count; resonance frequency; optical tomography; electrostatic sensor