Ask an Expert: Advanced DLS for richer insights

From our kitchen gadgets to our cellphones, people love clever devices that can do more than one task. Getting extra value out of a single item somehow feels like a victory – but did you know that your Zetasizer, or other dynamic light scattering (DLS) instrument, is one of those devices? It can do more than particle sizing! DLS has long been a trusted method for quick and non-invasive particle size analysis. It’s a common tool in laboratories worldwide, including those using the well-established Zetasizer Advance range.

See beyond particle size

However, an often-overlooked benefit is the opportunity to achieve even richer insights by using polarizers or fluorescence filters to optimize backscattering data. The good news? Using these techniques with the Zetasizer doesn’t have to be complex, and they offer real value in certain applications.

Polarizers can help to distinguish the variations in parallel and perpendicular polarization correlation functions. In practical terms, this means that researchers can gain an in-depth understanding of particle behavior and interactions, providing clarity that goes further than particle size measurements.

Similarly, fluorescence filters are quite accessible – and they’re essential in isolating specific wavelengths of scattered light, particularly when working with specialized particles like quantum dots or fluorescently labelled samples. The Zetasizer Advance proves its efficiency here, making the integration of these filters both seamless and user-friendly.

More insight from your experiments

While the technology and techniques aren’t new, they are often under-used. We’ve found that many long-time DLS users are missing out on these more nuanced insights, which can be extremely helpful in transitioning from a broad overview to a more specific understanding of your sample.

Using polarizers and fluorescence filters to get more from the Zetasizer’s backscattering abilities opens doors to an extra level of insight that can add serious value for researchers. From new ways to study cellular processes to monitoring pollutants in the environment, gaining more value from an instrument you already own and use is a great way to improve efficiency in the lab.

It’s also a good reminder that there are often unexplored avenues of potential that can yield interesting results within our everyday environments!

You’re invited to our advanced DLS webinar on November 23

Keen to explore this often-overlooked aspect of DLS? Come along to our upcoming webinar, ‘Advanced Dynamic Light Scattering: When can a polarizer give you extra insight?’. It will offer a fantastic opportunity to understand the practical applications of polarizers and fluorescence filters in maximizing the Zetasizer’s backscattering capabilities.

Our speaker, Dr. Ulf Nobbman, will explore:

• How to configure your polarizers and fluorescence filter
• How parallel and perpendicular polarization correlation functions may differ
• Why they may differ in intercept & measured size
• …and more.

Of course, there will be plenty of opportunity to ask Ulf your questions too – you can send them to askanexpert@malvernpanalytical.com ahead of time, or ask him directly on the day.

Register here and don’t miss it!

For our full calendar of Ask an Expert webinars, including past recordings, click here.

Find your perfect Zetasizer and download a brochure here.