ISO13320 - The International Standard For Laser Diffraction Measurements

In 1999 the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) published ISO13320 - an independent guide which comprehensively describes how laser diffraction systems work. This provides users with the understanding required to make good laser diffraction measurements, including:

• Principles of Laser Diffraction: A description of the different optical systems used to collect light scattering data is provided and the advantages of each are stated.
• Data Analysis: The use of different optical models, such as Mie Theory and the Fraunhofer Approximation, is covered and the range of applicability of each is assessed.
• System Validation: Guidance is provided regarding the typical reference materials which can be used to validate the performance of laser diffraction systems.
• Sample Handling and Dispersion: The requirements for the development of robust, reproducible methods or both wet and dry sample dispersion are described.
• Error Analysis: A trouble shooting guide is provided, listing the typical errors which must be understood and controlled if good measurements are to be made.
• Result Reporting: The parameters which should be included in any particle size reports are described in order to ensure that the conditions of measurement are correctly described.
• Definition of Terms: A glossary of the key terms used in describing laser diffraction system.

Malvern Instruments’ laser diffraction systems meet or exceed the requirements set-out within the ISO13320 document, ensuring users obtained the best possible measurements of their samples.

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