engleski

Light scattering techniques for nanoparaticles characterization

Among key nano particles (NPs) physico-chemical properties determining their behavior in different environments are the size and, if NPs are present in suspension,  potential. Different methods are available for determination of size but for most of them NPs should be deposited onto a surface and dried if a suspensions is to be characterized (e.g. different microscopy techniques). Sizes obtained with these methods do not reflect the influence of solvent, which, for example, can cause NPs aggregation. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) is widely applied method to determine size of NPs in suspensions. Adding to the popularity of the method is the fact that with most modern light scattering instruments it is also possible to determine zeta potential by electrophoretic light scattering. However, dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering are not a flawless methods. In order to obtain reliable results, due attention should be given to sample preparation, calibration and choice of correct mathematical apparatus for data processing. The advantages and ambiguities of DLS and zeta potential measurements will be illustrated by the results obtained in our laboratory for different types of soft and hard nanoparticles used in self-assembly, crystallization and stabilization studies.

dynamic light scattering; zeta potential; nanoparticles

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