Sample handling system for a particle suspension

摘要

The system comprises a dispersion means e.g. a chamber 14, transport means e.g. an impeller 46 and a measurement cell 18. A transducer 70 typically of ultrasonic type is mounted externally of chamber 14 on a wall thereof and transfers energy into the suspension in the chamber. The suspension is re-circulated about a flow path which includes the cell 18 and the chamber 14. Generally, laser light 181 is passed through the cell and the light scattered by the particles in the test suspension is measured in a detector 182. Dispersant can be added to the test suspension through an inlet valve 178. The ultrasonic transducer 70 aids dispersion of particles in the dispersant and breaks up any agglomerates. Also claimed is a handling system comprising a dispersion means, cell and an outlet means including first and second valve members. Utility is in laser scattering particle characterisation in suspensions.