Malvern Nano Series Basic Manual
  1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. Malvern Manuals
  4. Laboratory Equipment
  5. Nano Series
  6. Basic manual
Malvern Nano Series Basic Manual

Malvern Nano Series Basic Manual

Hide thumbs Also See for Nano Series:
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

Download this manual
!
Zetasizer
nano series
Malvern

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading
Need help?

Need help?

Do you have a question about the Nano Series and is the answer not in the manual?

Questions and answers

Related Manuals for Malvern Nano Series

Summary of Contents for Malvern Nano Series

  • Page 1 Zetasizer nano series Malvern...
  • Page 3 Zetasizer Nano Basic Guide MAN0486 Issue 1.0 September 2012 English...
  • Page 4 United Kingdom. Tel + [44] (0)1684-892456 Fax + [44] (0)1684-892789 Zetasizer, Malvern and the 'hills' logo are registered trademarks in the UK and/or other countries, and are owned by Malvern Instruments Ltd. NIBS and M3-PALS are trademarks of Malvern Instruments.

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    T able of contents Introduction to this manual ......... 1-1 Introduction .
  • Page 6 Table of Contents Zetasizer Nano Basic Guide ......4-14 Performing a quick measurement ..........4-25 Next...

  • Page 7: Introduction To This Manual Introduction

    Introduction to this manual Introduction This manual covers the operation and maintenance of the Zetasizer Nano particle analyser series. Zetasizer Nano Model instrument number Measurement types Nano S (Red badge) ZEN1600 Particle Size and Molecular weight Nano S (Green badge) ZEN1500 Particle Size and Molecular weight Nano Z (Red badge)

  • Page 8: Using This Manual

    Access to the instrument Malvern personnel Malvern personnel (service engineers, representatives, etc.) have full access to the instrument and are the only people authorised to perform all service procedures that may require the removal of the covers.

  • Page 9: Assumed Information

    Introduction to this manual Chapter 1 Operator An operator is a person trained in the use of the system. The operator can perform some user maintenance routines identified. Warning! Failure to follow these guidelines could result in exposure to hazardous voltages and laser radiation.
  • Page 10 This is the primary support method – only use the other methods if this is not available at your location. When contacting your local Malvern Instruments representative - details of all local telephone numbers are available at www.malvern.com. Always quote the following information: Model and serial number of the instrument.
  • Page 11 Note This help line is primarily English speaking. Remote support Malvern Instruments offers a remote support service, delivered by an internet con- nection. Benefits include fast and efficient fault diagnosis, as well as reducing downtime and costs. Zetasizer Nano Basic Guide...
  • Page 12 Chapter 1 Introduction to this manual Page 1-6 MAN 0486...

  • Page 13: Site Requirements

    Site requirements Introduction This document outlines the site requirements for a Zetasizer Nano. Ensure all these are met before the Malvern Instruments engineer arrives to install and commission the system. Environmental conditions The site must be: Away from strong light sources (e.g. windows).

  • Page 14: Space Required

    Chapter 2 Site requirements Store/operate the system in the following conditions (accurate measurements are sample-dependent, for example dry powders may stick together in high humidity): IP rating Designed to meet IP41B Operational conditions 5°C to 40°C (41°F to 104°F) Storage conditions -20°C to 50°C (-4°F to 122°F) Humidity Maximum humidity 80% for temperatures up to 31°C,...

  • Page 15: Services

    Site requirements Chapter 2 800 mm ill 7931 Services This section describes the services required. General The following services are required for each component: Vacuum Component Zetasizer Nano MPT-2 Titrator degasser Power sockets In addition, the computer system requires one or more power sockets. ...
  • Page 16 Zetasizer Nano instruments are Class 1 laser products and as such, require no spe- cial laser safety considerations during normal operation. However, during servicing (which must be performed by a qualified Malvern representative), the servicing engineer may be exposed to class 3b, or above, laser radiation. We therefore recom- mend that the administrative controls recommendations of the Laser Safety Regu- lations (IEC 60825-1(1993) +A1(1997)+A2(2001) are implemented.

  • Page 17: Mpt-2 Titrator Services

    The flow rate should be adjustable between 2 and 20 ml/min.  Computer specification Contact the Malvern Helpdesk or website for the recommended computer specification. This is also provided in the Software Update Notification. Zetasizer Nano Basic Guide Page 2-5...
  • Page 18 Chapter 2 Site requirements Page 2-6 MAN 0486...

  • Page 19: Health And Safety

     General safety issues Warning! Use of the system in a manner not specified by Malvern Instruments may impair the protection provided by the system. Site requirements The system has specific site requirements that must be enforced to ensure safe operation of the instrument - refer to the Site requirements chapter.
  • Page 20 Chapter 3 Health and safety Warning! Safety may be compromised if the system is used in an environment not conforming to the site requirements. Positioning the Instrument Warning! Do not position the instrument such that the power cord, where it exits the product, is unreachable for disconnection.
  • Page 21 Health and safety Chapter 3 Laser safety warnings The Zetasizer Nano optical unit is a Class 1 laser product and, as such, there is no exposure to laser radiation in its normal operation. The laser passes through the cell area but this area is enclosed when the cell is fitted. When the cell is not fitted, a mechanical laser shutter prevents exposure to laser radiation.
  • Page 22 If a spillage occurs, disconnect the power and scrupulously clean up before re-applying power to the system. Users who suspect powder or liquid has entered the covers should call a Malvern representative to arrange a service call. Warning! Never attempt to remove the covers; always contact a Malvern representa- tive.

  • Page 23: Power Cords And Power Safety

    Power cord set requirements Power cord sets must meet the requirements of the country where the product is used. For further information on power cord set requirements, contact a Malvern representative. General requirements These requirements apply to all countries: The power cord must be approved by an acceptable accredited agency respon- ...
  • Page 24  or dispersion unit. Use care when handling the adapter during or immediately after operation. Use only the Malvern-provided AC adapter approved for use with the instru-  ment/dispersion unit. Using a different adapter may cause fire or explosion. Page 3-6...

  • Page 25: Moving The System

    Health and safety Chapter 3 Advice on use of Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) To help protect the instrument and/or dispersion unit from sudden, transient  increases and decreases in electrical power, use a surge suppressor, line condi- tioner or UPS. Moving the system If it is necessary to move the system, follow these guidelines.

  • Page 26: Maintenance Of The Instrument

    Chapter 3 Health and safety Maintenance of the instrument This section covers the user maintenance procedures for the Zetasizer Nano optical unit. Do not attempt any maintenance procedure not specified here. Note Maintenance procedures and details of consumable parts kits for the indi- vidual dispersion units are provided in their respective user manuals.
  • Page 27 Health and safety Chapter 3 Cleaning the covers Caution! The surfaces of the system may be permanently damaged if samples or dis- persants are spilt on them. If a spillage occurs, disconnect the system from the power supply before carefully cleaning it up. Periodically clean the covers thoroughly using a mild soap solution.

  • Page 28: Sample Handling Warnings

    Chapter 3 Health and safety Sample handling warnings Always handle all substances in accordance with the COSHH (Control Of  Substances Hazardous to Health) regulations (UK) or any local regula- tions concerning sample handling safety. Before using any substance, check the Material Safety Data Sheets for safe ...

  • Page 29: Disposal Of The Instrument

    For more detailed information about recycling of this product, please contact the local city office, the waste disposal service, or the Malvern representative. Zetasizer Nano Basic Guide Page 3-11...
  • Page 30 Chapter 3 Health and safety Page 3-12 MAN 0486...

  • Page 31: System Overview

    System Overview Introduction This chapter gives a brief introduction to the Zetasizer Nano instrument and describes how to do perform a simple Zeta measurement using the Zeta potential transfer standard that is included with the system. A full description of the Zetasizer nano system, the hardware and software can be found in the following manuals: Zetasizer Nano User manual ...

  • Page 32: Briefly

    Chapter 4 System Overview Briefly... A typical system, shown below, comprises the Zetasizer instrument and a  computer with the Zetasizer software installed . A cell is filled with the sample   and loaded into the cell area on the top of the instrument ...

  • Page 33: The Zetasizer Nano Hardware

    System Overview Chapter 4 The Zetasizer Nano hardware The diagram below shows a typical system with its key modules. The MPT-2 Titrator, shown alongside, can be included to form part of the overall system. ill 8499 The Zetasizer Nano instrument Optical unit Positioned on the cover are two labels - one to identify the instrument and another to identify the instrument model.
  • Page 34 Chapter 4 System Overview  Optical unit  Cell area  Rear Panel  Cuvette holder  Status indicator  Cells and Cuvettes  Cell access button Rear Panel The rear panel provides all the connections. These are identified below. ill 8501 ...
  • Page 35 System Overview Chapter 4 Warning! Only connect Malvern approved accessories. Caution! It is important that the purge air line supply conforms to the above specifi- cation. Failure to meet this specification may result in permanent damage and invalidation of the warranty.
  • Page 36 Chapter 4 System Overview Features of the cell area Other important features of the cell area are described below. ill 8502  Cell area lid  Thermal cap  Electrodes  Drain port  Access channel for Titrator and flow ...
  • Page 37 System Overview Chapter 4 ill 8503 Cells and Cuvettes A range of cells and cuvettes are available to use with the Zetasizer instrument. Full details are given in the Zetasizer Nano Accessories Guide, but briefly the following cells can be used. Cell Application Disposable “polystyrene”...

  • Page 38: The Zetasizer Software

    System Overview The Zetasizer software The Malvern Zetasizer software controls the system during a measurement and then processes the measurement data to produce either a size, zeta potential or molecular weight result. It displays the results and allows reports to be printed.
  • Page 39 Contains all tools that can be use to aid in the measurement, display and reporting functions of the software Security Menu To prevent unauthorised changes, the Malvern software has a Security installed can be configured to limit each user’s access to various functions.
  • Page 40 Selecting a report tab will display a predefined report as selected by the Report pages tab in the workspace win- dows. Malvern supplies several reports that give different views of the measurement settings and results, whilst cus- tom reports can be generated using the Report Designer feature.
  • Page 41 System Overview Chapter 4 The Measurement display shows the progress of the measurement. The screen display shown changes depending on the type of measurement being performed and the view tab selected. Status bar and Status icons The status bar gives an indication of the instrument’s current operating state and an extended description of the tool icons.

  • Page 42: Connecting The Zetasizer Nano

    Connecting the Zetasizer Nano It should be noted that the Zetasizer Nano system should initially be commissioned by Malvern trained personnel. This section will show how to re- install the system, typically required under the following circumstances: Moving the instrument.

  • Page 43: Power On

    System Overview Chapter 4 Installation options If purge air is required connect to the purge air port at the base of the rear panel   If the instrument is fitted with the 532nm ‘green’ laser option connect the laser ...

  • Page 44: Performing A Quick Measurement

    Chapter 4 System Overview Performing a quick measurement Enclosed with the System is an installation test is the Zeta potential transfer stand- ard plus an installation macro that allows both a Sizing and Zeta measurement to be performed. This can be used run through the processes involved with preparing a sample and running a measurement, and also to see that the system performs correctly.
  • Page 45 System Overview Chapter 4 Note This is the instrument confirming which type it is. In brief, if the instru- ment name contains an S it tests size and if it contains a Z it tests zeta potential. A Zetasizer Nano ZS or ZS90 tests both. Fill the cuvette and/or cell Prepare the appropriate cuvette/cell for size and/or zeta potential measurement as described here.
  • Page 46 Chapter 4 System Overview ill 7935 The sample depth should be between 10 and 15 mm. This can be checked by placing the cuvette against the diagram on the inside of the cell area lid. Max: 15mm Min: 10mm ill 7936 Push the lid securely onto the cuvette: ill 7937 Page 4-16...
  • Page 47 System Overview Chapter 4 Zeta potential test Take a supplied Folded capillary cell and rinse internally with ethanol or methanol. A syringe or wash bottle can be used. Use sufficient fluid to just wet the inside surface of the cell and the electrodes. Flush the cell through with de-ionised water to clean.
  • Page 48 Chapter 4 System Overview ill 8485 Check again for bubbles in the cell. Tap the cell gently to dislodge these. Ensure that both electrodes on the inside of the cell are completely immersed in the sample. Remove the syringe and insert a cell stopper in each port: ill 7940 Remove any liquid spilt on the outer part of the electrodes and the outside of the cell.
  • Page 49 System Overview Chapter 4 For a Zeta potential test: Load the appropriate cell in the instrument, following the procedure below, then click OK. Size test Press the button to open the measurement chamber lid: ill 7942 Most cuvettes have a triangle or spot mark. This must face towards the front of the Nano: Zetasizer Nano Basic Guide Page 4-19...
  • Page 50 Chapter 4 System Overview ill 8487 Push the cuvette down so it is firmly located then push down the chamber lid: ill7944 Zeta potential test Press the button to open the measurement chamber: ill7942 The cell has a weld line just behind the front surface, as shown here: Page 4-20 MAN 0486...
  • Page 51 System Overview Chapter 4 ill 7945 Holding the cell near its top, turn the weld towards the front of the instrument. It must face the front of the Nano when inserted. Push the cell into the cell holder until it stops. ill 7946 Close the measurement chamber lid to cover the cell.
  • Page 52 Chapter 4 System Overview The test reports whether the system passed or failed, thus: The instrument is setup correctly if the performed test or tests pass.  If testing both size and zeta potential, after the Size test the instrument ...
  • Page 53 Ensure that the cell plugs are inserted firmly.  Finally..If the test continues to fail, contact the local Malvern representative (before calling make a note of the instrument’s serial number.) Viewing the results To view the result, select one of the Installation tests records - Size or Zeta - and then click one of the Report tabs.
  • Page 54 Chapter 4 System Overview Intensity PSD (M) report for a size test ill 8488 Zeta potential (M) report for a zeta potential test ill 8189 Page 4-24 MAN 0486...

  • Page 55: Next

    Once the instrument is setup and its performance validated with the Zeta transfer standard, it is ready for use. Measurements are made using Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) as described in this chapter. Malvern Instruments supplies some default SOPs, others may be created by super- visors/advanced users. To run an SOP: Select the command Measure-Start SOP: Available SOPs are listed in a selection window.
  • Page 56 Chapter 4 System Overview Page 4-26 MAN 0486...

  • Page 57: Appendices

    Appendices Specifications - Optical unit The following table details the specification of the Zetasizer Nano optical unit. Full specifications of the Zetasizer Nano accessories can be found in their respective user manuals. All specifications correct at time of publication, but may be subject to alteration. Parameter Specification Size...
  • Page 58 Appendix A Appendices Molecular weight * Molecular weight range 1000Da to 2x10 Da (S, ZS, ZSP, S90, - (estimated from DLS) ZS90) † 1000Da to 2x10 Da (S, ZS, ZSP) † Molecular weight range - (calculated using Debye plot) 10,000Da to 2x10 Da (S90 &...
  • Page 59 Ambient operating conditions +10 to +35 °C (+50 to 95 °F) Humidity 10 to 90% (non-condensing) Recommended computer Contact the Malvern Helpdesk or website specification for the recommended computer specifica- tion, otherwise consult the Software Update Notification document supplied on the software CD.

  • Page 60: Chemical Compatibility

    Appendix A Appendices Chemical compatibility Components of the Zetasizer Nano that may come into contact with the sample are manufactured from materials that are considered to give the widest protection from chemical attack. However, it is important to check that any sample or titrant used is chemically compatible with the materials mentioned.

  • Page 61: Regulatory Statements

    For more detailed information about recycling of this product, please contact your local city office, your waste disposal service, or your Malvern representative. Zetasizer Nano Basic Guide Page A-5...
  • Page 62 Note Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Malvern Instruments Limited could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. Page A-6 MAN 0486...
  • Page 63 Canadian Department of Communications. Note that Canadian Department of Communications (DOC) regulations provide, that changes or modifications not expressly approved by Malvern Instruments Limited could void your authority to operate this equipment. This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
  • Page 64 Appendix A Appendices Page A-8 MAN 0486...
  • Page 66 Printed in England ill 8807 Malvern Instruments Limited Enigma Business Park Grovewood Road, Malvern Worcs, WR14 1XZ, U.K. Tel: +44 (0) 1684 892456 Fax: +44 (0) 1684 892789...

This manual is also suitable for:

Zetasizer nano

Table of Contents