Malvern Chemical Industry Particle Size Measurements

Producing a diverse range of solid chemical products involves many different solid processing unit operations. The technologies of spray drying, granulation, atomization, milling, and others, are all commonly used in the chemical industry. Whilst some size control methods are relatively straightforward, the fluid flow, heat and mass transfer issues, and solidification kinetics, associated with others makes operation and effective control complex. As particle size is typically a key product variable, on and off-line particle size measurement are valuable for improving process knowledge and optimizing the yield of product having the correct specification.

In this section

	Agrochemical industry Particle size characterization and rheology measurements are key in the production of pesticide sprays which effectively coat both sides of the foliage, do not drift during spraying, and do not evaporate too rapidly, as well as granulated products that maintain their properties even when poorly stored (typically in damp conditions). Rheology data is also extremely valuable, in combination with zeta potential measurements, in the development of stable agrochemical suspensions.
	Process chemical industry With constant pressure on variable costs and with increasingly stringent environmental constraints, chemical producers are looking to increase yield and throughput from existing plants, and simplify plant operation. Manufacturers are increasingly employing off-, at- and on-line analyzers to improve process knowledge and develop automated process control strategies that deliver improved process efficiency by reducing variability and automating best practice.