NanoSight system for visualising and measuring nanoparticles

The Malvern NanoSight NS300 uses unique Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) technology to detect and visualise populations of nanoparticles (10nm to 2000nm) on a particle by particle basis. The technique uses the properties of both light scattering and Brownian motion to calculate particle size and concentration.

The random movement of each particle in a fluid (Brownian motion) is tracked by capturing the light scattered by the particles when illuminated by a laser. A digital camera together with specially designed software capture the light scattered by the particles and track their motion frame by frame. The rate of movement is related to particle size, which is calculated by using the Stokes-Einstein equation to give hydrodynamic diameter. Labelled or naturally fluorescent particles can also be detected with a choice of laser wavelengths and a motorised fluorescence disc.

NTA provides high resolution particle size distribution, concentration, protein aggregation and viscosity results, independent of particle density and refractive index. Events such as aggregation and dissolution can be monitored as they occur.

The software is specifically designed to meet the needs of both new and experienced users. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) can be easily set up as well as customised reporting and full access to raw data for a more in-depth analysis of results.