Zetasizer Nano S90
The entry level system for the measurement of particle and molecular size at a 90 degree scattering angle using Dynamic Light Scattering and molecular weight using Static light scattering.
Overview
The Zetasizer Nano S90 is the perfect lower cost solution when the ultimate in sizing sensitivity is not necessary, or where identical results to a legacy system with 90 degree scattering optics is required.
- Size measurement from 0.3nm (diameter) to 5 microns using 90 degree scattering optics
- Molecular weight measurement down to 9,800Da
- A Quality Factor gives confidence in the data
- The Expert advice report gives help to improve sample preparation or the measurement procedure
- 21CFR part 11 software option enables compliance with ER/ES
- Research software option gives access to further features and analysis algorithms for the light scattering specialist
- Automation of measurements using an autotitrator option
- Optical filter option to improve measurements with fluorescent sample
- Temperature range extension option to 120ºC
- Alternative laser, 50mW at 532nm for samples incompatible with the standard 633nm laser fitted
- Systems can be upgraded to add zeta potential at a later date
How it works
The Zetasizer Nano S90 incorporates two techniques in a single compact unit, and has a range of options and accessories to optimize and simplify the measurement of different sample types.
Dynamic Light Scattering at a scattering angle of 90 degrees is used to measure particle size and molecule size. This technique measures the diffusion of particles moving under Brownian motion, and converts this to size and a size distribution using the Stokes-Einstein relationship.
Static Light Scattering is used to determine the molecular weight of proteins and polymers. In this technique, the scattering intensity of a number of concentrations of the sample is measured, and used to construct a Debye plot. From this the average molecular weight and second virial coefficient can be calculated.
This measurement is very demanding on the stability of the whole system, and means that every element of the design has been optimised to ensure accuracy and repeatability
Software
The software is designed to be versatile and rich in features without compromising ease of use. Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) simplify routine measurements, a quality factor gives a single place to look for the success of a measurement, and expert advice is given to assist with data interpretation.
Options
The MPT-2 Autotitrator enables the study of the effect of changes in pH, conductivity, or any additive to be automated.
A range of disposable and reusable cells are available to optimise the measurement in terms of sample volume, concentration and for flow measurement.
Other options include filters to improve the measurement of fluorescent samples, a temperature range extension to 120ºC and a viscometer to determine the sample viscosity to the accuracy required for the techniques used.
Specification
Particle size and molecular size
Parameter
Specification
- Measurement range:
- 0.3nm – 5.0 microns* (diameter)
- Measurement principle:
- Dynamic Light Scattering
- Minimum sample volume:
- 20µL
- Accuracy:
- Better than +/-2% on NIST traceable latex standards
- Precision/Repeatability
- Better than +/-2% on NIST traceable latex standards
Molecular weight
Parameter
Specification
- Measurement range:
- 9,800Da – 20M Da*
- Measurement principle:
- Static Light Scattering using Debye plot
- Minimum sample volume:
- 20µL (3-5 sample concentrations required)
- Accuracy:
- +/- 10% typical
- Temperature control range:
- 0ºC - 90ºC +/-0.1**, 120ºC option
- Light Source:
- He-Ne laser 633nm, Max 5mW
- Laser safety:
- Class 1
- Power: (V, Hz, VA)
- 100VA
Weight and dimensions:
Parameter
Specification
- Dimensions (W, D, H)
- 320mm, 600mm, 260mm (W,D,H)
- Weight: (kg)
- 21
Operating environment:
Parameter
Specification
- Temperature:
- 15°C – 40°C
- Humidity:
- 35% - 80% non-condensing
Software:
Parameter
Specification
- Operating platforms:
- Windows XP, VISTA, Windows 7
(compatible only with 32 bit versions of
Windows XP Pro and Windows 7)
Accessories
A range of accessories are available to make life easier, or to add capability to the system
Automates experiments to study the effect of a change in sample conditions such as pH, conductivity, or the concentration of an additive. Up to three titrants can be used to increase and decrease pH for example.
See the MPT-2 Autotitrator
An extremely simple and fast method of measuring the viscosity required for molecular size and zeta potential measurements. In 15 seconds the viscosity of 10mL of sample or dispersant can determined to an accuracy of 1% of samples with as low a viscosity as water. Water jacket supplied for temperature control (Note: Water bath required and available at additional cost)
See the SV-10 viscometerFactory fitted options
50mW 532nm DPSS laser
For use where the sample is incompatible with the standard 633nm laser, either because the sample absorbs or fluoresces, or the sample is photosensitive.
The addition of this option does not affect the system specifications
Narrow band filters
Useful where the sample fluoresces. Will select the scattering from non-fluorescing particles and improve the signal to background ratio
High temperature capability
Increases the high temperature capability from 90ºC to 120ºC. Suitable for samples in wax media that melt above 90ºC



