Exploring the Hidden Secrets of Inorganic Particles and Formulations through X-ray Insights

The new Gravity Separation & Particle Analyzer LUMiReader® X-Ray 440 now complements the product range of LUM GmbH.
Based on the patented and decades-proven STEP-Technology® (Space and Time resolved Extinction Profiles) and building on the success and positive feedback of its predecessor, the LUMiReader X-Ray 434, the new product takes the applicability of X-ray-STEP-technology to a new level. It is now possible to comprehensively characterize inorganic particles and their formulations from different perspectives using a single analyser. This significantly expands the range of applications for dispersions, suspoemulsions, and emulsions. Powders, foams, chemical solutions, flat solid objects, and particles in solid matrices become accessible.
The multifunctionality of the LUMiReader X-Ray 440 is already evident in the determination of essential particle properties: size distributions according to ISO 13317-3, density according to ISO 18747, effective agglomerate density and dispersibility – all in one device.
Dispersion characterization at original concentration in the temperature range of 15–40°C (in selected applications even up to 60°C, each with a suitable thermostat) and a measurement duration from one second to unlimited enables direct and accelerated stability testing under gravity (ISO/TR 13097), as proposed, for example, by some standards and guidelines in the pharmaceutical or cosmetic fields (ISO/TR 18811). X-ray detection clearly demonstrates its advantages here over wavelengths in the visible or near-infrared range and subsequent human or instrumental assessment of changes. Simultaneous transmission measurement across the entire sample height over the entire measurement period shows its advantages over methods that lack spatial resolution or are near the surface.
As part of a multi-STEP-analysis, the results of the LUMiReader X-Ray 440 measurement provide valuable information on particle dispersibility and sample homogeneity in the initial state within seconds. After accelerated separation, e.g., in the LUMiSizer, this information is again evaluated within seconds to determine volume or mass concentrations as well as concentration gradients in separated phases, such as in sediment.
Closed measuring cells prevent contact between the sample and the instrument. A wide selection of cuvette materials and geometries, as well as the customer-specific design of sample holders, ensure the virtually unlimited applicability of the LUMiReader X-Ray 440. The SEPView 7 measurement and analysis software, a platform-independent, browser-based client-server program, takes working with the LUMiReader X-Ray 440 to a completely new level. It allows for fast and easy worldwide data exchange while still enabling local work with protected data. Naturally, it complies with CFR 21 Part 11.
Discover the advantages of the LUMiReader X-Ray 440 for your inorganic particle applications. The global LUM team is always available to assist you with demonstrations, tests, and consultations.