Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for obtaining and analyzing light scattering data to determine the size distribution of a group of dispersed particles that scattered the light. The apparatus and method use a two-dimensional array of photosensitive pixels such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) or an array of solid-state photodiodes. The analyzer illuminates the particles with a dose of light in a collimated beam from a light source so as to scatter light of the beam, and at least a portion of the light interacting with the particles is detected with the photosensitive pixel array. The pixels are functionally equivalent and the analyzer dynamically configures and re-configures at least a portion of the pixels into a variable number of data collection areas which correspond to a selected set of scattering angles. The analyzer also determines whether and, from the pixel output data, where an unscattered center of the incident light beam intersects the pixel array.

Abstract: A sample handling system provides an evenly-suspended, small volume, bubble-free sample to an analyzer such as a light scattering particle size analyzer. A flow of suspension is forced through an elongate channel below the surface of the liquid in the channel, along a downwardly sloping path, into impact with an end wall, and through an abrupt downward turn. Controlled turbulence created in the flow disperses particles and releases bubbles from the liquid.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for obtaining and analyzing light scattering data to determine the size distribution of a group of dispersed particles that scattered the light. The apparatus and method use a two-dimensional array of photosensitive pixels such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) or an array of solid-state photodiodes. The analyzer illuminates the particles with a dose of light in a collimated beam from a light source so as to scatter light of the beam, and at least a portion of the light interacting with the particles is detected with the photosensitive pixel array. The pixels are functionally equivalent and the analyzer dynamically configures and re-configures at least a portion of the pixels into a variable number of data collection areas which correspond to a selected set of scattering angles. The analyzer also determines whether and, from the pixel output data, where an unscattered center of the incident light beam intersects the pixel array.

Abstract: An x-ray sedimentation particle size analyzer in which data is taken only at particular positions along the sedimentation cell, and each such position is individually calibrated. Presentation of the data in the form of a particle size distribution curve can be accomplished very accurately using interpolation techniques. The sedimentation cell design is free of the effects of undesirable density gradients, capable of detecting and removing bubbles, capable of attaining a highly uniform dispersion of sample prior to sedimentation, and including a safety interlock device for blocking x-ray projection when the cell is being accessed.

Abstract: An x-ray sedimentation particle size analyzer in which data is taken only at particular positions along the sedimentation cell, and each such position is individually calibrated. Presentation of the data in the form of a particle size distribution curve can be accomplished very accurately using interpolation techniques. The sedimentation cell design is free of the effects of undesirable density gradients, capable of detecting and removing bubbles, capable of attaining a highly uniform dispersion of sample prior to sedimentation, and including a safety interlock device for blocking x-ray projection when the cell is being accessed.

Abstract: A continuous volume measuring device for measuring the cumulative volume of a flowing fluid. The device includes a pair of coupled expandable chambers, and the fluid flow is directed into a first chamber to expand it while the second chamber is contracting and expelling liquid therefrom, the expansion of the first chamber being measured to determine the volume of fluid being received therein. When a predetermined volume of liquid is received, a valve means diverts the fluid flow to fill the second chamber, the expansion of which is similarly measured, and the first chamber is emptied. In the preferred embodiment, the chambers are precision syringes.