Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA)

Visualize and measure particle size and concentration

Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) utilizes the properties of both light scattering and Brownian motion in order to obtain the nanoparticle size distribution of samples in liquid suspension.

How NTA works

Particles in liquid suspension are loaded into a sample chamber, which is illuminated by a specially shaped laser beam. Particles in the path of the beam scatter the laser light which is easily collected by the 20x microscope objective and is viewed with a digital camera. The camera captures a video of the particles moving under Brownian motion. 

The Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) software analyses many particles individually and simultaneously (particle-by-particle), and by using the Stokes-Einstein equation, calculates their hydrodynamic diameters. 

NanoSight instruments provide high resolution nanoparticle size, count-based concentration and aggregation measurements while a fluorescence mode provides specific results for suitably labeled particles. With real time monitoring, subtle changes in the characteristics of particle populations are provided with all of these analyses confirmed by visual validation.

Benefits of Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis

Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis uses low sample volumes with little sample preparation which, along with minimal instrument consumables, reduces running costs on a day-to-day basis.  

The technique is also non-destructive and the sample can be recovered if required.

Working to industry standards

NanoSight NTA systems support work within:

  • ISO 19430:2016 Particle Tracking Analysis (PTA) Method 
  • ASTM E2834-12 (2012) Standard Guide for Measurement of Particle Size Distribution of Nanomaterials in Suspension by Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA)

Applications of NTA

Some common applications for Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis include:

  • Exosomes, microvesicles and extracellular vesicles characterization
  • Viral vaccine research and development
  • Development of drug delivery systems
  • Protein aggregation studies
  • Nanotoxicology
Find out more about our instruments for NTA in the table below.
NanoSight Pro

NanoSight Pro

Characterizing Nano- and Biomaterials has never been so quick, easy, and accurate.

Technology
Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis
Measurement type
Particle concentration
Particle size
Particle size range

*Sample and instrument configuration dependent