Particle Size Analyzers

Particle Size Analyzers for Sale

Buy used, refurbished, and surplus particle size analyzers from mLab Supply for laser diffraction, dynamic light scattering, nanoparticle characterization, and zeta potential measurement workflows. We source particle size and particle characterization systems from Malvern Panalytical, Beckman Coulter, HORIBA, and Anton Paar for pharmaceutical, materials science, biotech, and research laboratory environments. Pricing and availability vary by instrument configuration — submit a quote request and we will confirm current sourcing options, configuration details, and lead time.

<section class="mlab-collection-buying-guide">
<h2>How to Choose a Particle Size Analyzer</h2>
<p>Selecting a particle size analyzer requires matching the instrument's measurement technology, size range, and sample-handling capabilities to your specific analytical workflow. Key considerations include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Measurement technology:</strong> Laser diffraction and dynamic light scattering (DLS) are the most common techniques. Laser diffraction is suited for a broad particle-size range including powders and suspensions. DLS is suited for nanoparticles and submicron particles in suspension.</li>
<li><strong>Particle-size range:</strong> Confirm the instrument covers the particle-size range relevant to your samples. Size range varies significantly by technique and platform.</li>
<li><strong>Sample type:</strong> Consider whether your samples are powders, suspensions, emulsions, or nanoparticles, and whether wet or dry dispersion is required.</li>
<li><strong>Concentration requirements:</strong> DLS is sensitive to sample concentration and may require dilution. Laser diffraction is generally more tolerant of a wider concentration range.</li>
<li><strong>Throughput and automation:</strong> Consider whether autosampler capability or high-throughput measurement is required for your workflow.</li>
<li><strong>Software and data export:</strong> Confirm software compatibility with your data management workflow and operating system.</li>
<li><strong>Serviceability:</strong> Consider laser/source condition, local service availability, and parts availability for the specific platform and vintage.</li>
</ul>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-techniques">
<h2>Laser Diffraction vs Dynamic Light Scattering</h2>
<h3>Laser Diffraction Particle Size Analyzers</h3>
<p>Laser diffraction particle size analyzers measure particle-size distributions by analyzing the angular pattern of light scattered by particles passing through a laser beam. They are suited for a broad particle-size range — typically from sub-micron to millimeter scale depending on the platform — and are commonly used for powders, granules, emulsions, and suspensions in pharmaceutical, materials science, food, and chemical applications. Laser diffraction instruments may support wet dispersion, dry dispersion, or both depending on the platform and available accessories.</p>
<h3>Dynamic Light Scattering Particle Size Analyzers</h3>
<p>Dynamic light scattering (DLS) particle size analyzers measure particle size by analyzing the time-dependent fluctuations in scattered light caused by Brownian motion of particles in suspension. DLS is well suited for nanoparticles, submicron particles, proteins, and macromolecules in solution. It is commonly used in pharmaceutical formulation, biotech, and materials research where nanoscale particle characterization is required. DLS instruments often also support zeta potential measurement. Sample concentration and polydispersity can affect DLS measurement quality.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-zeta">
<h2>Particle Size and Zeta Potential Analysis</h2>
<p>Particle sizing and zeta potential are related but distinct measurements. Particle size characterizes the physical dimensions of particles in a sample. Zeta potential characterizes the surface charge behavior of particles in suspension and is commonly used as an indicator of dispersion stability — higher absolute zeta potential values are generally associated with more stable dispersions. Some particle characterization platforms combine both particle size and zeta potential measurement in a single instrument. Not every particle size analyzer listed here measures zeta potential. Confirm the specific measurement capabilities of the instrument before purchasing.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-model-grid">
<h2>Popular Particle Size Analyzer Manufacturers and Models</h2>
<p>mLab Supply sources particle size analyzers from leading manufacturers including Malvern Panalytical, Beckman Coulter, HORIBA, and Anton Paar. Common models available to source include:</p>
<dl>
<dt>Malvern Panalytical</dt>
<dd>Mastersizer 3000, Zetasizer Nano ZS, Zetasizer Ultra</dd>
<dt>Beckman Coulter</dt>
<dd>LS 13 320</dd>
<dt>HORIBA</dt>
<dd>LA-960, SZ-100</dd>
<dt>Anton Paar</dt>
<dd>Litesizer 500</dd>
</dl>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-comparison-fc">
<h2>Particle Size Analyzers vs Flow Cytometers</h2>
<p>Particle size analyzers and <a href="/collections/flow-cytometers">flow cytometers</a> are analytically distinct instruments. Particle size analyzers characterize particle-size distributions or nanoparticle properties in bulk samples and are commonly used for powders, emulsions, suspensions, nanoparticles, and materials characterization. Flow cytometers characterize biological cells or particles at the single-event level using optical scatter and fluorescence signals and are used for cell counting, immunophenotyping, and cell biology workflows. They are not interchangeable — the appropriate instrument depends on your analytical objective and sample type.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-used-refurbished">
<h2>Buying Used and Refurbished Particle Size Analyzers</h2>
<p>Used and refurbished particle size analyzers can offer significant cost savings compared to new instruments. When evaluating a used system, key inspection points include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Laser and light source:</strong> Confirm laser condition and output. Laser age and condition affect measurement performance. Lamp or laser replacement history varies by unit.</li>
<li><strong>Detector condition:</strong> Confirm detector functionality and any known issues.</li>
<li><strong>Optics:</strong> Confirm optics are clean and free of damage or contamination.</li>
<li><strong>Dispersion unit:</strong> For laser diffraction systems, confirm wet and/or dry dispersion unit condition, pump function, and tubing integrity where applicable.</li>
<li><strong>Cuvettes and sample cells:</strong> Confirm cuvette type and condition for DLS systems. Cuvette inclusion varies by unit.</li>
<li><strong>Software and computer:</strong> Confirm software version, license status, and operating system compatibility. Computer inclusion varies by unit.</li>
<li><strong>Service history:</strong> Request available calibration and QC records where available.</li>
<li><strong>Accessories:</strong> Confirm which accessories are included. Autosampler, dispersion accessories, and other peripherals vary by unit.</li>
</ul>
<p>Calibration status, software licensing, dispersion accessory completeness, and laser condition must be confirmed per unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used or refurbished instrument meets specific regulatory or institutional requirements without independent verification.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-dispersion">
<h2>Sample Dispersion and Preparation</h2>
<p>Proper sample dispersion and preparation are critical for accurate and reproducible particle size measurements. Key considerations include wet vs dry dispersion requirements, appropriate dispersant selection, sample concentration and dilution, sonication to break agglomerates, sample-cell compatibility, and cleaning protocols between measurements. Not all particle size analyzers support both wet and dry dispersion — confirm the dispersion capabilities and available accessories for the specific instrument before purchasing. Agglomeration, contamination, and improper concentration can significantly affect measurement results.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-applications">
<h2>Applications</h2>
<p>Particle size analyzers support a wide range of analytical and research workflows including pharmaceutical formulation development, nanoparticle characterization, polymer analysis, pigment and coating characterization, ceramic and powder analysis, emulsion and suspension characterization, battery material analysis, food science, and general materials characterization. Suitability for specific regulated applications or institutional quality requirements must be confirmed by the buyer and their compliance team.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-software">
<h2>Software, Accessories, and Workflow Considerations</h2>
<p>Particle size analyzers vary in their software architecture and accessory ecosystem. Confirm software version, license status, and operating system compatibility when requesting a quote. Dispersion accessories, cuvettes, sample cells, and autosamplers vary by platform and are not guaranteed to be included with used instruments. Data export formats and integration with laboratory information management systems vary by platform. Method development and software training requirements should be considered when evaluating a used instrument.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-installation">
<h2>Installation and Facility Planning</h2>
<p>Particle size analyzers are benchtop instruments with compact footprints. Key installation considerations include available bench space, electrical requirements, compressed air supply where required for dry dispersion, water and dispersant handling, waste handling, and computer or workstation requirements. Performance verification is recommended after installation and after any relocation. Confirm all site requirements before finalizing a purchase.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-procurement">
<h2>Procurement and Logistics</h2>
<p>mLab Supply supports institutional procurement workflows including formal quotations, purchase orders, and vendor onboarding documentation. We can source specific particle size analyzer models and configurations on request. Freight coordination is available. We also purchase surplus and decommissioned particle size analyzers — contact us via the <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have equipment available.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-related">
<h2>Related Laboratory Equipment</h2>
<p>Laboratories sourcing particle size analyzers often also require <a href="/collections/uv-vis-spectrophotometers">UV-Vis spectrophotometers</a> for absorbance-based concentration measurements, <a href="/collections/microplate-readers">microplate readers</a> for plate-based analytical workflows, and <a href="/collections/flow-cytometers">flow cytometers</a> for single-cell or single-particle analysis. Browse <a href="/collections/beckman-coulter">Beckman Coulter laboratory equipment</a> for additional instruments from that manufacturer. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> for current availability and pricing, or visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have surplus particle size analyzers or other lab equipment to sell.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-faq">
<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<details><summary>What is a particle size analyzer?</summary><p>A particle size analyzer is an analytical instrument used to measure the size or size distribution of particles in a sample. Common measurement techniques include laser diffraction for a broad particle-size range and dynamic light scattering (DLS) for nanoparticles and submicron particles in suspension. Particle size analyzers are used across pharmaceutical, materials science, biotech, food, and chemical research applications.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between laser diffraction and dynamic light scattering?</summary><p>Laser diffraction measures particle-size distributions by analyzing the angular pattern of scattered light and is suited for a broad size range including powders, granules, and suspensions. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) measures particle size by analyzing time-dependent fluctuations in scattered light caused by Brownian motion and is suited for nanoparticles and submicron particles in suspension. The appropriate technique depends on your particle-size range and sample type.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is zeta potential?</summary><p>Zeta potential is a measure of the surface charge behavior of particles in suspension. It is commonly used as an indicator of dispersion stability — particles with higher absolute zeta potential values tend to repel each other and form more stable dispersions. Zeta potential is measured by some particle characterization platforms, often in combination with particle size measurement.</p></details>
<details><summary>Do all particle size analyzers measure zeta potential?</summary><p>No. Zeta potential measurement is available on some platforms — particularly DLS-based instruments such as the Malvern Zetasizer series, HORIBA SZ-100, and Anton Paar Litesizer 500 — but not on all particle size analyzers. Laser diffraction instruments such as the Mastersizer 3000 and Beckman Coulter LS 13 320 measure particle-size distributions and do not typically measure zeta potential. Confirm the specific measurement capabilities of the instrument before purchasing.</p></details>
<details><summary>What should I inspect before buying a used particle size analyzer?</summary><p>Key inspection points include laser or light source condition, detector functionality, optics condition, dispersion unit and pump condition for laser diffraction systems, cuvette type and condition for DLS systems, software version and license status, computer inclusion and compatibility, and available calibration and service history. Accessory completeness varies by unit.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are dispersion units and sample cells included with used instruments?</summary><p>Dispersion accessory and sample cell inclusion varies by unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that wet or dry dispersion units, cuvettes, or other accessories are included unless explicitly stated for a specific listing. Confirm accessory requirements before finalizing a purchase.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are used particle size analyzers calibrated before sale?</summary><p>Calibration and performance verification status varies by unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used instrument has been calibrated or performance-verified unless explicitly stated for a specific listing. Request available calibration and QC documentation when inquiring about a specific instrument.</p></details>
<details><summary>Can mLab Supply source a specific Malvern Panalytical, Beckman Coulter, HORIBA, or Anton Paar model?</summary><p>Yes. We source particle size analyzers from Malvern Panalytical, Beckman Coulter, HORIBA, Anton Paar, and other manufacturers on request. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> with your preferred manufacturer, model, and configuration requirements and we will confirm current sourcing options and availability.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are refurbished particle size analyzers suitable for regulated laboratories?</summary><p>Suitability for regulated environments depends on the specific instrument's condition, calibration status, and your institution's qualification requirements. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used or refurbished instrument meets specific regulatory or institutional standards without independent verification. Consult your quality and compliance team before purchasing for regulated use.</p></details>
<details><summary>Is software included with used particle size analyzers?</summary><p>Software inclusion and license status vary by unit. Confirm software version, license transferability, and operating system compatibility when requesting a quote. mLab Supply does not guarantee software license transferability on used instruments.</p></details>
<details><summary>Does mLab Supply coordinate freight and installation for particle size analyzers?</summary><p>Yes. Contact us when requesting a quote to discuss freight and any installation coordination requirements for your specific location.</p></details>
<details><summary>Does mLab Supply purchase surplus particle size analyzers?</summary><p>Yes. We purchase decommissioned and surplus particle size analyzers and other analytical instruments. Visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page to submit details about your equipment.</p></details>
</section>