Study of nanoparticles by dynamic light scattering method

Abstract

Nanoparticles are one of the most common terms for the study of ultradispersed objects and repeat such terms as colloidal particles, ultradispersed particles, but differ from them in certain size limits. Thus, the ground is created for the acquisition of new nanomaterials that differ from massive materials in their physical, chemical and mechanical properties. The goal of the paper is studying nanoparticles in dispersed systems using dynamic light scattering spectrometer LB-550, Horiba, (Japan) and its software. Spectroscopic view of DLS allows studying the dynamics of the system, dependence of nano- and micro-scale (from 1 nm to 6 microns) complexes, aggregates, clusters, particles on time and temperature in the system. The method makes possible to study distribution of the particles in dispersions according to their diffusion coefficient, linear dimensions, and sizes. LB-550, Horiba analyzer allows studying the processes of formation and precipitation of particles, aggregates and complexes in the temperature range of 278-343 K. The applied system should be homogeneous and continuous, no sediment should form within ≈ 1 h. The viscosity and refractive index of the solvents are measured in advance or taken from the data table if available. The results of the study prove the possibility of estimating the sizes of the particles distributed in such dispersions in large concentrations with sufficient accuracy. No special preparation is required for applying the method. So, there is no need to calibrate the device using a standard during measurements.