System and Configurations
NanoFlowSizer system and modularity
Flexibility in system configuration is key
The flexibility of measurement configurations is a key attention point for InProcess-LSP.
Various applications and processes from R&D up to commercial production environments come with different objectives, requirements and configuration possibilities.
Replaceable modules
The NanoFlowSizer allows particle size measurements for small to large scales based on inline, online or offline analysis.
Various replaceable sample modules are available to equip the NanoFlowSizer with an optimal interface to your sample or process.
Full flexibility
The NanoFlowSizer elements
The NanoFlowSizer consists of three main elements :
- Probe Unit: Interferometer + Optical components
- The Base Unit: Spectrometer and light source
- XsperGo software: instrument operation and data processing
The NanoFlowSizer is a flexible modular system offering different functionalities depending on the module used.
Low coherence interferometry
Low coherence light travels from the light source to the Probe Unit through a fiber bundle. Light is then emitted to the nanosuspension and back-scattered by the nanoparticles. The interferometer in the probe unit processes the obtained back-scatter signal of the sample into depth-resolved data.
By inverse Fourier Transformation functions into particle size information obtained are processed via auto-correlation functions into particle size information. The XsperGo software (installed on the computer connected to the NanoFlowSizer), applies data treatment algorithms and real-time quality indicators, providing nanoparticle size and size distribution to control the quality of products and processes.
Inline and online configurations
The NanoFlowSizer as a true PAT tool is specifically designed for effective inline and online analysis, interfacing dedicated flow cell sample modules with your process.
These flow-through cells can be mounted easily using well-accepted industry-standard Tri-Clamp connections into your process line.
Pharma Grade flow cells
- Flow-cells are Pharma grade and suitable for SIP/CIP
- Temperature & Module recognition sensor integrated
- Connection for external PT100 temperature sensor possible
- Air-drying functionality to prevent condensation
Laminar flow
Point of attention for inline analysis:
Consistency of the flow rate,
severe pulsation in the flow pattern (caused by process equipment or pump systems) will negatively affect the quality of the measurement.
Image left:
Development of a laminary flow for adequate inline or online measurements
Inline configuration
NanoFlowSizer at manufacturing plant
Inline NanoFlowSizer configuration (2.0 inch Flow Cell Sample Module) in manufacturing
Online configurations
Online loop
Online loop vessel
Online drain loop vessel
Online piping or vessel configurations are a very attractive alternative for inline configurations since flow rate and flow consisitency can be managed independently from the main sample stream and optimized for the intended measurement. In case a diversion of the flow either looped back into the sample stream or not is feasible an online configuration will provide a very feasible solutions for your particle sze analysis in real time.
The flow rate and consitency can be managed easily by a pulse free pump system in the loop which assures measurements with highest possible precision.
Besides the existing 0.5 to 2.0 XL Flow Cells a Micro-Flow Cell based sample module is available for online analysis of small mL based volumes as well.
Real-time, continuous particle size measurements of a Titanium Oxide Synthesis at various conditions by Micro-Flow Cell Sample Module Configuration.
The NanoFlowSizer is a flexible modular system allowing inline and offline analysis
Offline configurations
Besides the unique capabilities of the NanoFlowSizer to measure in flow, measurements of static samples by offline analysis are possible as well. The vial sample module for static measurements is a helpful tool for non-invasive and fast analysis of (closed) glass vials (without dilution). This sample modules is also used for performance verification with particle size reference standards.
Dynamic studies, such as monitoring particle growth in a static sample can be easily performed, either in a vial, cuvette or larger beaker of flask. For beakers and flasks, the flask sample module is a flexible tool which can handle glass bottles typically up to 1L. For direct analysis of end-product in glass flasks the flask sample module allows direct measurement through the glass bottle without any dilution or sample handling.
NanoFlowSizer configurations overview
| NanoFlowSizer Base System | In Flow | In Flow | Static |
| Base Unit |  | | |
| Probe Unit | | | |
| Interchangeable Sample Modules | |||
| Flow-through cell module (0.5-2″) | | | |
| Vial Module | | ||
| Cuvette | | ||
| Bottle | | | |
| Micro | | | |
| Other | |||
| XsperGo | | | |
| Workstation | | | |
| System Cable | 1.5 – 4.5 meter | ||
Customized sampling modules
In case currently available sample modules are not suitable for optimal measurement of your product or process, InProcess-LSP offers the possibility to create optimal and specific designs for customers if required. In principle particle size information of nanosuspensions can be obtained by the NanoFlowSizer as long as the measurement takes place through a glass interface. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information.
Fast and real-time process control
Configurations
Fast analysis:
- Offline (R&D)
- Offline (QC)
- In-line
- On-line
- At-line
