Bettersizer S3 Series – Particle Size and Shape Analysis System
Overview
The Bettersizer S3 Series represents a state-of-the-art solution for the comprehensive analysis of particle size and shape in a single instrument. It combines laser diffraction (static light scattering) with dynamic image analysis using high-speed CCD cameras, allowing a unique integration of two complementary technologies to analyze particles from 10 nm up to 3,500 µm.
This dual-method setup enables precise, high-resolution measurements across a broad size spectrum, offering excellent performance for R&D and quality control applications in numerous industries, such as pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, electronics, ceramics, polymers, and more.
Key Features and Benefits
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Wide Measurement Range: 0.01 to 3,500 µm for laser diffraction; 2 to 3,500 µm for image analysis (S3 Plus).
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Innovative DLOIOS Technology (Dual Lenses & Oblique Incidence Optical System):
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Enables accurate measurement from as small as 10 nm.
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Uses a single 532 nm DPSSL laser for consistent wavelength and continuous scattering spectrum.
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Dynamic Image Analysis:
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Captures and analyzes over 10,000 particles/min in real-time.
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Integrated dual CCD cameras (0.5X and 10X lenses in S3 Plus).
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Real-time imaging for verification of particle shape and dispersion state.
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Refractive Index Determination: Based on sample concentration for precise analysis of unknown materials.
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Standards Compliant: DIN ISO 13320, 21 CFR Part 11, CE.
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High Accuracy: <0.5% repeatability and reproducibility.
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Rapid Measurements: Under 1 minute per test.
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Visualization Tools: Trend graphs, shape-vs-size analysis, and particle distribution histograms.
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Versatile Applications: Suitable for solid particles, emulsions, dispersions, and a wide range of materials.
Measurement Principles
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Laser Diffraction (Static Light Scattering):
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Measures diffraction pattern of particles illuminated by a 532 nm laser.
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Detector angle range: 0.02 – 165° with 96 detection channels.
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Data processed using Mie or Fraunhofer theory.
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Dynamic Image Analysis:
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Visualizes particle shapes using CCD cameras.
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Quantifies shape descriptors (aspect ratio, circularity, Feret diameters, perimeter).
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Real-time monitoring and statistical classification.
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Model Comparison
Feature |
Bettersizer S3 |
Bettersizer S3 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Laser Diffraction Range | 0.01 – 3,500 µm | 0.01 – 3,500 µm |
| Image Analysis Range | 100 – 3,500 µm | 2 – 3,500 µm |
| CCD Cameras | One (0.5X lens) | Two (0.5X and 10X lenses) |
| Shape Analysis | Limited | Full (from 4 µm up) |
Applications
The Bettersizer S3 is ideal for particle analysis in:
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Pharmaceuticals
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Cosmetics & Personal Care
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Food & Beverages
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Paints & Inks
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Electronics
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Metals & Polymers
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Glass & Ceramics
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Soils & Sediments
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Carbon & Oil
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Construction Materials
Bettersizer S3 Series – Technical Specifications
Parameter |
Specification |
|---|---|
| Measurement Principle | Static light scattering & image analysis |
| Analysis Theory | Fraunhofer or Mie |
| Measurement Range (Laser Diffraction) | 0.01 – 3,500 µm |
| Measurement Range (Image Analysis – S3) | 100 – 3,500 µm |
| Measurement Range (Image Analysis – S3+) | 2 – 3,500 µm |
| Number of Size Classes | >100 (individually adaptable) |
| Measurement Time | < 1 minute |
| Accuracy | < 0.5% |
| Repeatability | < 0.5% |
| Reproducibility | < 1.0% |
| Feeding System | Centrifugal pump |
| Dispersion | Ultrasonic bath (50 W) |
| Sample Volume | 600 ml |
| Laser Type | DPSSL (Diode-pumped solid-state laser) |
| Laser Wavelength | 532 nm (green) |
| Laser Power | 5 mW |
| Laser Class | Class 1 |
| Lens Design | F-Theta, double-lens, oblique incidence |
| Effective Focal Length (Laser) | 223 mm |
| Effective Focal Length (Image Analysis) | 110 mm |
| Detector Channels | 96 |
| Detection Angle Range | 0.02 – 165° |
| CCD Cameras (S3 Plus) | Two high-speed CCD (0.5X & 10X) |
| Shape Analysis | Aspect ratio, circularity, Feret diameters… |
| Software Compatibility | Windows 7 or higher |
| Recommended Specs | Intel Core i7, 4 GB RAM, USB 2.0 |
| Conformity | 21 CFR Part 11, ISO 13320, CE |
| Data Export Formats | Excel, PDF, Word, JPG, others |
| Instrument Dimensions (L x D x H) | 820 x 650 x 320 mm |
| Instrument Weight | 30 kg |