Application in the chemical industry

For the success of your applications in industries such as the chemical industry, correctly performed particle analysis is essential. NEXOPART products contribute to optimizing workflows and ensuring compliance with safety standards in your applications. With a clear focus on precision and innovation, we are setting new standards for the future of laboratory applications.

Challenges of particle analysis in chemistry

Particle analysis is a key component of quality control and product development in the chemical industry. Particle size distribution has a direct impact on process properties such as reaction rate, solubility, mixing behavior, and flowability. At the same time, requirements for product quality, documentation, and reproducibility continue to increase. Companies therefore need reliable measurement methods to evaluate raw materials, monitor production processes, and ensure compliance with international standards. Precise particle analysis provides the foundation for stable processes, consistent product properties, and well-founded decision-making in laboratories and production environments.

Typical applications of particle analysis in chemistry

Detergents and cleaning agents

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Particle size distribution influences the solubility, dosing characteristics, and cleaning performance of detergents and cleaning agents. Precise particle analysis helps manufacturers ensure consistent product properties and optimize production processes.

Pigments and color chemicals

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For pigments as well as paints and coatings, particle size has a direct impact on color intensity, opacity, gloss, and dispersibility. Reliable particle analysis enables the monitoring of raw materials and helps ensure consistent quality standards.

Catalysts

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The effectiveness of catalysts depends largely on their particle size and the resulting surface area. A defined particle size distribution contributes to stable processes, reproducible reactions, and high product quality.

Fertilizers

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Particle size and particle size distribution influence the spreading characteristics, storage stability, and dissolution behavior of fertilizers. Through regular particle analysis, manufacturers can ensure uniform application and consistent product quality.

Powders and chemical additives

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Powdered raw materials and additives often must meet stringent requirements for flowability, mixing quality, and dosing accuracy. Particle analysis enables reliable quality control throughout the entire production process.

Battery materials and specialty chemicals

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For battery materials and specialty chemicals, particle size and particle size distribution are critical factors for processability and performance. Precise particle analysis methods support research, development, and quality control in demanding applications.

Particle analysis using detergent powder as an application example

In the chemical industry, such as in the production of detergent powder, particle size plays a crucial role in the performance and efficiency of the chemical base material and its additives. The correct granulation of detergents influences not only their solubility but also their cleaning performance. Precise particle analysis helps determine the optimal particle size for various applications. In addition, chemical reactions can be specifically controlled through particle size management, which is of great importance in many industrial processes. Innovative analytical techniques enable chemists to develop new formulations that are both more environmentally friendly and more effective.

The secret behind quality: e200 LS

Do you know the secret behind the quality of detergent powder? We’ll reveal it: key ingredients such as surfactants, enzymes, and water softeners must be optimally balanced to achieve outstanding cleaning performance. Physical testing methods, particularly sieve analysis, play a central role in ensuring product quality. With a properly conducted analysis, manufacturers can not only optimize the performance of their detergents but also set new standards and meet increasing consumer expectations.

The NEXOPART EML Series Vibratory Sieve Shakers are ideally suited for the analysis of particles down to 32 µm. During the sieving process, a sample is passed through a stack of sieves with different mesh sizes. This allows particles to be separated into various fractions, enabling fast and cost-effective analysis. Particles finer than 100 µm can also be analyzed using the NEXOPART e200 LS Air Jet Sieving Machine.

Sieve analysis as a proven method for quality control

Sieve analysis is a proven method for determining the particle size distribution of detergent powder. During sieve analysis using the NEXOPART EML Series, the powder is passed through a stack of sieves with different mesh sizes arranged in a sieve tower. For detergent powder analysis, mesh sizes typically range from 2 mm to 32 µm. The measured passing fractions provide information about how much material is present in each particle size class. This information is essential for ensuring product consistency and quality.

Through sieve analysis, manufacturers can not only determine the particle size distribution but also draw conclusions about the detergent's performance. An optimal particle size promotes solubility and therefore enhances the product's effectiveness during use. In addition, the analysis enables adjustments to the formulation in order to achieve the desired product properties.

Measuring instrument compliant with DIN ISO 3310 standard

Sieves with mesh sizes ranging from 125 mm to 5 µm

Wide variety of frame materials available

Standards and regulations for sieve analysis in the chemical industry

Standards such as ISO 3310 are essential for ensuring consistent results in sieve analysis. ISO 3310 relates to sieve analysis and defines the requirements for test sieves. All NEXOPART sieves comply with the DIN ISO 3310 standard. ISO 3310 is used to determine particle size distribution through mechanical sieving. This standard specifies the procedures and equipment that must be used to obtain reliable and reproducible results. Compliance with these standards ensures that test results are internationally comparable, thereby building confidence in product quality. For companies operating in a highly competitive market, this is particularly important, as they must not only guarantee high product quality but also comply with legal requirements and standards related to safety and environmental protection.

Industry brochure Chemistry

Learn more about the application in chemistry using the example of washing powder in this brochure.

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Häufig gestellte Fragen zum Thema Chemie

For which applications in the chemical industry does NEXOPART offer solutions?

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NEXOPART provides suitable particle analysis solutions for powders, paints, coatings, and virtually any product that undergoes a chemical process. In the chemical industry, NEXOPART products such as the CPA 2-1, the EML Series, and the e200 LS are used for raw material analysis and new product development.

What role does particle size play in chemical processes?

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Particle size influences reaction rate, mixing behavior, solubility, and the surface area of a material. A controlled particle size distribution contributes significantly to product quality and process efficiency.

Which method is suitable for the analysis of chemical powders?

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The choice of analytical method depends on the material properties and the measurement range. For coarser powders, sieve analysis is frequently used, while air jet sieving or Dynamic Image Analysis are suitable methods for fine particles.

How often should the particle size distribution be checked?

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In quality control, particle size analysis is often performed on a batch-by-batch basis. In development and production processes, additional regular control measurements can be carried out to identify process fluctuations at an early stage.

Why is particle analysis important for research and development?

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In the development of new chemical products, particle analysis helps to understand the relationship between particle properties and product performance. This enables formulations to be optimized in a targeted manner.

What is the composition of detergents?

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Detergents consist of various chemical components that work together to effectively remove dirt and grease. The main ingredients are surfactants, water softeners, and enzymes. Surfactants are responsible for loosening dirt, while water softeners reduce water hardness to improve washing performance. Enzymes help break down specific stains such as proteins and starches.

What tests are performed for the quality assurance of detergent powders?

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Various physical tests are carried out to ensure the quality of detergent powders. These include the analysis of particle size and powder flow properties. A common method is sieve analysis, in which the powder is passed through sieves with different mesh sizes to determine the particle size distribution. These tests ensure that the product meets both production and application requirements

Why is determining the particle size distribution important?

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Determining particle size distribution is essential for the quality and performance of detergent powders. A uniform particle size ensures optimal solubility and distribution in water. It also affects the powder's flow properties, which are important for smooth handling and use in both laboratories and production environments. Standards such as ISO 3310 and ASTM E2651 help ensure consistent and reliable results.

What impact do detergent ingredients have on the environment?

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The individual components of detergents can have different environmental impacts. Surfactants may be harmful to aquatic environments because they can affect the living conditions of aquatic organisms. Some enzymes are biodegradable and therefore less harmful, while other chemical compounds, such as phosphates, can negatively affect water quality. It is important to choose environmentally friendly alternatives and sustainable products whenever possible.