Particle Size
Particles are the basic building blocks of all matter. From the air we breathe and the furniture we use, to the devices we interact with every day and the food we consume, most of the items in our lives can be broken down into incredibly small particles.
Particles come in many sizes, from large to small, and even in shapes. Since particles are so small, it can be difficult to measure them accurately. To measure particle size, scientists use particle size analyzers, which measure particle properties such as size, shape, and composition.
Particles can be divided into two categories: fine particles and coarse particles. Fine particles are typically less than 2.5 microns in diameter whereas coarse particles are typically larger than 2.5 microns in diameter. Particles of this size can range from the tiniest dust particles to the smallest grains of sand.
Particle size is important in many industries, such as food processing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and cosmetics production, as the size of particles can affect the performance of products. For example, in food processing, there are five size classes of particle size: Very coarse (greater than 10 mm), coarse (2-10 mm), medium (0.5-2 mm), fine (0.25-0.5 mm), and very fine (less than 0.25 mm). The size of the particles drastically affects the texture, taste, and consistency of the finished product.
In the pharmaceutical industry, drug particles can range from very fine (less than 1 micron) to large (greater than 250 microns). The particle size of the drug particles is important, as it can affect how much of the drug is absorbed by the body. For example, drugs that are very fine are more likely to be absorbed by the body than those that are larger.
In the cosmetics industry, particle size is also important. For example, products made from larger particles tend to provide more skin coverage and color, whereas those made from smaller particles tend to sink into the skin and provide more of a subtle coverage. Additionally, the size of the particles can affect the feel of the product; products made from very fine particles will have a light and silky feel, while those made from coarser particles will have a heavier, more gel-like feel.
Particle size can also affect performance in other industries, such as paint and powder coating, paper manufacturing, and plastics. The size and shape of the particles in these products can affect the drying time and finish of the material.
Overall, particle size is an important consideration when creating and manufacturing a product. The size, shape, and composition of the particles will affect the performance, texture, and feel of the finished product. For this reason, scientists use particle size analyzers to accurately measure the particles in order to ensure that products perform as expected.
