Particle Size Measurement Using Chromatography

I. INTRODUCTION

A. Background and Overview

Determination of the particle size (PS) and particle size distribution (PSD) is one of the most important aspects of the characterization of particulate systems, whether in a powdered, latex, or suspension form. The importance of particle size analysis to the various fields of particle science and technology rests on the wide range of properties which are directly relatable to the PS and PSD. These vary from fundamentally important phenomena such as the stability, light scattering, and viscosity behavior of particulate suspensions, to practically important properties such as the covering power, gloss, and surface protection characteristics of coatings and paints. The number of techniques available is enormous^{1, 2} and the particular method best suited to a given application will depend primarily on the size or size range in question and whether one is interested in determining an average size or the complete size distribution. A relatively recent review paper³ gives a good overview of the most commonly used and pertinent techniques along with a discussion of the relative merits of the key methods.