ISO 13320 Particle Size Testing of Pigments
The ISO 13320 standard is a widely recognized method for determining the particle size distribution of pigments. This technique is essential in ensuring consistent quality and performance across various industries such as coatings, plastics, printing ink, rubber, and paper. Understanding the particle size characteristics of pigments can significantly impact their functionality within these applications.
The testing process involves dispersing the pigment into a liquid medium to form a stable suspension, which is then analyzed using laser diffraction techniques. This method measures the scattering intensity of light as it interacts with particles at various angles, providing detailed particle size distributions from nanometer-sized clusters up to micrometer-range aggregates.
Proper specimen preparation is critical for accurate results. The pigments must be thoroughly dispersed in a suitable solvent or dispersing medium according to ISO 13320 requirements. This ensures that the particles are isolated and not aggregated, allowing for precise measurement of individual particle sizes. Specimen preparation also includes ensuring minimal contamination from other materials.
The choice of dispersant is crucial as it affects both the stability of the suspension and the accuracy of the measurements. Common dispersants include water-based systems for inorganic pigments like titanium dioxide (TiO2) or organic solvents used for more complex compounds such as carbon black or phthalocyanine blue.
The testing procedure typically involves several steps including sample introduction, calibration checks, and data acquisition. During the experiment, it's important to maintain consistent conditions such as temperature and humidity to prevent any variations that could affect the results.
Once the measurement is complete, detailed reports are generated outlining the particle size distribution curves. These visualizations help identify key parameters like mean diameter (Dv50), volume-weighted median diameter (Dv43), and various percentile diameters which provide insights into the overall composition of the pigment.
| Standard Code | Description | Relevant Section |
|---|---|---|
| ISO 13320-1:2015 | Laser diffraction method for particle size distribution of pigments and other fine particles. | General Requirements |
| ASTM D4892-17 | Standard test methods for laser diffraction particle size analysis of fine powders. | Measurement Procedures |
Applied Standards
The ISO 13320 series of standards provides comprehensive guidelines for the laser diffraction particle size analysis of pigments and other fine particles. The specific application here focuses on the use of ISO 13320-1:2015, which outlines general requirements for this technique.
| Standard Code | Description | Relevant Section |
|---|---|---|
| ISO 13320-2:2015 | Dilute suspension method for particle size distribution of pigments and other fine particles. | Suspension Preparation |
| ASTM D4892-17 | Standard test methods for laser diffraction particle size analysis of fine powders. | Data Acquisition and Analysis |
Benefits
Accurate particle size testing using ISO 13320 ensures that pigments meet the required specifications for their intended applications. This leads to enhanced product performance and reliability, reducing waste and improving efficiency throughout production processes.
By identifying optimal particle sizes, manufacturers can tailor formulations specifically for different end uses, ensuring better adhesion, hiding power, or color strength in coatings or printing inks. For R&D teams, this service provides valuable data that can be used to innovate new products or improve existing ones by optimizing pigment dispersion and performance.
Quality managers and compliance officers benefit from having reliable test results for regulatory purposes, helping them maintain high standards of product quality while staying compliant with industry regulations. Procurement professionals also gain confidence knowing they are sourcing materials that meet stringent technical requirements.
Quality and Reliability Assurance
Our laboratory adheres strictly to ISO 13320 standards ensuring each particle size test is conducted under controlled conditions. We use state-of-the-art laser diffraction equipment calibrated regularly to ensure accuracy and precision. Our team of experts ensures every sample undergoes thorough specimen preparation, following strict protocols to avoid errors.
Data analysis is performed using advanced software that automatically generates detailed reports complete with graphical representations of the particle size distribution curves. These reports are reviewed by our quality assurance personnel before final approval, guaranteeing that all results meet our high standards for accuracy and reliability.
We employ rigorous quality control measures throughout the testing process to minimize variability and ensure consistent results across multiple samples. This commitment to excellence allows us to provide clients with confidence in their pigment specifications knowing they are based on dependable data from certified laboratories.
