Automatic dilution system for high-resolution particle size analysis

摘要

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an automatic dilution system that determines an optimal value of a dilution factor DF for a sample suspension containing particles mixed with a diluent.;SOLUTION: A sensor measures the value of a characteristic such as the initial rate of increase of a quantity related to the particle concentration. The optimal value of DF is calculated, and a control signal allows adjustment of the flow of the sample to provide the optimal value of the DF. Only a portion of the sample is directed to the sensor to shorten the time to reach equilibrium. Mixing means is a static mixer having relatively small volume. The time to reach equilibrium is further reduced. Larger dilution factors are obtainable in which the sample is prediluted in a mixing chamber and then further diluted in a second mixing chamber.;SELECTED DRAWING: None;COPYRIGHT: (C)2016,JPO&INPIT