Abstract: A method for determining characteristics of a material includes illuminating the material with coherent light so as to produce scattered light; autocorrelating the scattered light; preprocessing a signal representative of the scattered light to produce a processed signal; and associating the analyzed data with particular characteristics of the material. At least one of a cumulant analysis and a cluster analysis may be performed to provide analyzed data. The determined characteristics may be used for real time control or termination a process used to alter the characteristics of the material. Specifically, monitoring of a process for changes in particle size as a function of time or to determine various physical and/or chemical characteristics of the particles or a mixture containing same, including homogeneity, may be achieved. An apparatus operating generally in accordance with the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for evaluating one or more materials in accordance with size of particles. The method includes evaluating a spectrum of light reflected from a first group of particles; evaluating a spectrum of light reflected from a second group of particle; comparing results of said evaluating of said first group with results of said evaluating of said second group; and providing an indication of a state of said material when said comparing produces a predetermined comparison result. Distance between a first light conductor for conducting light to the particles and a second light conductor for conducting light from said particles for said evaluations may be varied. Monitoring of a process for changes in particle size as a function of time or to determine various physical and/or chemical characteristics of the particles or a mixture containing same, including homogeneity, may be achieved.