Introduction; General Measurement Advice - Malvern Mastersizer Series Getting Started

Introduction

It is usual for the operator to use the software to setup a "sequence" that, once set
up, will automatically go through the procedures of measuring the sample,
analysing the data and saving the results by simply pressing a single button.
However, it is important to know the individual stages that are involved. This
chapter is concerned with the measurement of the sample - the next chapter will
give the practical details on analysing the data.
In chapter 3 the section "How to make a measurement" gave a brief overview of
the stages involved in making a measurement. These stages where:
. Setup the system.
. Document the sample.
. Align the optics.
. Measure the background.
. Add the sample.
. Measure the sample.
This chapter will explain the practical steps of each of these stages. It has been
found that the best way to learn how to measure a sample is to actually make a
measurement on a system. To get the most benefit from this chapter it is advised
to read through the chapter first and then to go through a second time following
the instructions to make a measurement on the system.
To do this you will need a suitable sample to measure and a suitable dispersant to
disperse it in. Either ordinary dairy cream or a PVA glue dispersed in water are
readily available samples and dispersant that should give you good predictable
results.
By the end of this chapter you will have gained the practical knowledge that is
needed to perform a measurement, such as which range lens to choose or how to
prepare the sample etc. This knowledge will allow you to understand the
procedures involved in setting up a measurement "sequence".

General measurement advice

Before we make a measurement there is some important general advice that
should always be noted.
G E T T I N G S T A R T E D
C H A P T E R 4
P a g e 4 . 1