Ask an Expert: How particle size analysis supports sustainable Critical Raw Materials (CRM) production
It can be good to try new things – but we all know that new habits only stick when they work just as well as (or better than) our old routines. You might try taking a new route to work, for example, but if it’s not quicker, cheaper, or more scenic, it’s unlikely to become the path you take every day.
The same is true for the raw materials industry, and especially for critical raw materials (CRMs) like those identified by the EU. There’s been a growing awareness in recent years that we need to find alternative and more sustainable, CRM production routes for these strategically important yet high-supply-risk materials. But the challenge goes beyond simply developing alternative production solutions: the new solutions need to outperform traditional mineral mining if they’re to supersede them in the market and drive sustainability in CRM production.
Small particles, big challenge
Magnesium is a case in point. This important element can be extracted, via reactive crystallization, from brine in the form of magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2). The abundance of seawater makes this a promising route for more sustainable production of the magnesium we rely on – but only if the final product offers the same properties as its traditionally mined counterpart and complies with all relevant market regulations and requirements.
How can we be sure of delivering the necessary level of quality? It all comes down to our ability to accurately characterize the material’s nanoparticles through methodical analytical procedures.
Data-driven efficiency for optimized CRM production
In our Mg(OH)2 example, reliable measurements of particle size distribution and particle stability are key. There are, of course, plenty of factors to consider in this kind of investigation – from effective particle treatment before analysis (using an anti-agglomerant, for instance), to the interaction between precipitation and mixing phenomena, to variations in the material refractive index.
With our industry-leading instrument portfolio, we help you not only to overcome but to harness these complexities. Malvern P analytical’s tools gives you the accurate insights you need to fully assess your CRMs’ characteristics – and optimize your operations, whether in research or CRM production.
Our Mastersizer range contains the world’s most popular laser diffraction particle size analyzers, which come with intuitive software and deliver rapid, accurate results that you can trust. What’s more, the instruments in our Zetasizer portfolio are the perfect complement, supporting you with particle size measurement, particle mobility assessments, and zeta potential investigations.
Don’t miss our webinar!
Curious to know more? In our February 23 Ask an Expert! webinar, we’ll be exploring this topic in depth – so join us as our expert, Dr. Giuseppe Battaglia from the Università degli Studi di Palermo, dives into the results of a detailed investigation into the effects of reactant mixing on Mg(OH)2 particle size distributions precipitated from highly concentrated magnesium chloride solutions.
Giuseppe will shed light on the optimal operating conditions for the industrial production of high-quality Mg(OH)2 nanoparticles, discuss how to get the best out of our Mastersizer 2000, offer guidance on preventing agglomeration, and – of course – answer all your questions.
Register now for this free event! If you already have a question, submit it in advance to askanexpert@malvernpanalytical.com – or just bring it along for our expert to answer on the day. See you there …
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