Can an arbitrary refractive index be used for every powder?
No. Review the material and optical model rather than choosing a value solely to obtain a preferred distribution. Assess sensitivity to justified settings during method development.
Distinguish the refractive index used for the particle from the index of its dispersing medium. The real and imaginary components describe different optical behavior. Document the selected model and material assumptions so that comparing two distributions does not conceal a change in how the light signal was evaluated.
Planning laser diffraction
Describe the particle material, sample state and distribution required by the application. Optical assumptions and dispersion conditions are part of the method, not incidental settings. When reviewing a result, preserve the model, reporting basis and preparation conditions so that later comparisons address the same measurement question.
What to bring to an application discussion
| Consideration | Information to provide |
|---|---|
| Material optics | Particle and medium information |
| Model choice | Optical assumptions and settings |
| Comparison record | Same sample and reporting basis |
Questions before selecting a configuration
How can Glen Mills help with this application?
Share material optics, model choice, comparison record when you contact Glen Mills for further information or a quote. This helps focus the discussion on the preparation and evaluation described here.
How should a measurement result be assessed?
Use the size definition, distribution basis and acceptance criteria required by your measurement method. Discuss particle measurement with Glen Mills when a representative trial is needed to evaluate the configuration.
Explore particle characterization equipment
Review the equipment details and discuss the supported configuration for your sample.