Spectris Malvern Panalytical ZETASIZER NANO Basic Manual
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Spectris Malvern Panalytical ZETASIZER NANO Basic Manual

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ZETASIZER NANO
BASIC GUIDE

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Summary of Contents for Spectris Malvern Panalytical ZETASIZER NANO

  • Page 1 ZETASIZER NANO BASIC GUIDE...
  • Page 3 ZETASIZER NANO BASIC GUIDE Publication date: Monday, October 15, 2018 MAN0486-02-EN...
  • Page 4 DISCLAIMER Although diligent care has been used to ensure that the information in this material is accurate, nothing herein can be construed to imply any representation or warranty as to the accuracy, correctness or completeness of this information and we shall not be liable for errors contained herein or for damages in connection with the use of this material.

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    CONTENTS Chapter 1 Introduction About the Zetasizer Nano About this manual Zetasizer Nano range options Cells and cuvettes Access to the instrument Assumed information Where to get help Chapter 2 Health and Safety General safety issues General maintenance warnings Optical unit warnings Sample handling warnings Fumes Chapter 3 Site requirements...
  • Page 6 Chapter 4 System overview Overview Optical unit Connecting the Zetasizer Nano Chapter 5 Software overview Zetasizer software Measurement display Menu bar Installing the software Chapter 6 Quick start: Using the system Turning on the system Running the installation test macro Running a SOP Chapter 7 Maintenance About maintenance procedures...
  • Page 7 Chapter 9 Specifications Specifications (Optical unit) Chemical compatibility...

  • Page 9: Chapter 1 Introduction

    CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION About the Zetasizer Nano About this manual Zetasizer Nano range options Cells and cuvettes Access to the instrument Assumed information Where to get help...

  • Page 10: About The Zetasizer Nano

    CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION About the Zetasizer Nano The Zetasizer Nano range of instruments provides the ability to measure three fundamental characteristics of particles or molecules in a liquid medium: particle size, zeta potential and molecular weight. Depending upon the accessories used, the system also has the ability to perform: microrheology, autotitration and trend measurements.

  • Page 11: Zetasizer Nano Range Options

    CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION Provides a brief description of the measurement process. Describes the basic maintenance procedures. Provides the specifications of the instrument. Product documentation structure This manual fits into the following information structure for this product: Basic Guide — provides the essentials required to get started, including health and safety. All users must read this manual before using the system.
  • Page 12 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION Size range Zetasizer Size range for Zeta poten- Molecular weight range maximum Nano tial (diameter) (Daltons) (diameter) 0.3 nm to 10 µm 342 Da to 2x10 7 Da 3.8 nm to 100 μm 342 Da to 2x10 7 Da 0.3 nm to 10 μm 3.8 nm to 100 μm 0.3 nm to 5 μm...

  • Page 13: Cells And Cuvettes

    CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION Cells and cuvettes A range of cells and cuvettes are available to use with the Zetasizer instrument. The following table lists the cells and their application. For more details, see the Zetasizer Nano Accessories Guide. Cell Application Disposable polystyrene cuvettes – Standard and Size and Zeta potential (with dip-cell) Small volume Folded capillary cell...

  • Page 14: Assumed Information

    CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION 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. Assumed information General The Zetasizer Nano can be used with a variety of Zetasizer Nano accessories that allow it to...

  • Page 15: Where To Get Help

    CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION Where to get help This section provides information on how to get help with your system. Help desk All queries regarding the system should initially be directed to your local Malvern Panalytical rep- resentative, providing the following information: Model and serial number of the instrument.
  • Page 16 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION www.malvernpanalytical.com The Malvern Panalytical website offers a comprehensive range of resources for customer use 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

  • Page 17: Chapter 2 Health And Safety

    CHAPTER 2 HEALTH AND SAFETY General safety issues General maintenance warnings Optical unit warnings Sample handling warnings Fumes...

  • Page 18: General Safety Issues

    CHAPTER 2 HEALTH AND SAFETY General safety issues WARNING! Use of the system in a manner not specified by Malvern Panalytical may impair the pro- tection provided by the system. Site requirements The system has specific site requirements that must be enforced to ensure safe operation of the instrument.
  • Page 19 CHAPTER 2 HEALTH AND SAFETY Temperature warnings WARNING! The warning triangles on the cuvette lid and thermal cap warn of potentially hazardous temperatures within the cell area. The temperature range of the cell area is 2 °C to 90 °C for the standard instrument, 2 °C to 120 °C for the High Temperature option. 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.
  • Page 20 CHAPTER 2 HEALTH AND SAFETY CAUTION CLASS 1 LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN LASER PRODUCT AVOID DIRECT EYE EXPOSURE CLASS 1 CAUTION - CLASS 3B LASER CAUTION - CLASS 3R LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN RADIATION WHEN OPEN LASER PRODUCT AVOID EXPOSURE TO BEAM AVOID DIRECT EYE EXPOSURE 1.
  • Page 21 CHAPTER 2 HEALTH AND SAFETY Electrical safety warnings Take care when measuring samples not to spill liquid or powder over the system covers. Con- ducting materials or liquids can damage insulation and cause dangerous conditions. If a spillage occurs, disconnect the power and carefully clean up before re-applying power to the system. Users who suspect powder or liquid has entered the covers should call a Malvern Panalytical representative to arrange a service call.
  • Page 22 CHAPTER 2 HEALTH AND SAFETY The power cord must be approved by an acceptable accredited agency responsible for evaluation in the country where the power cord set will be installed. The power cord set must have a minimum current capacity of 10A (7A in Japan only) and a nominal voltage rating of 125 or 250 volts AC, as required by each country's power sys- tem.
  • Page 23 CHAPTER 2 HEALTH AND SAFETY Advice on use of extension leads Follow this advice when using single or multiple socket extension leads. These are also called trailing sockets. Ensure the lead is connected to a wall power outlet and not to another extension lead. The extension lead must be designed for grounding plugs and plugged into a grounded wall out- let.
  • Page 24 CHAPTER 2 HEALTH AND SAFETY Moving the system Follow the guidelines in this section if it is necessary to move the system. Moving the optical unit Disconnect the computer and power supply before attempting to move the system. Always lift the instrument by holding it under both of its short sides, with a firm grip on the metal base plate.

  • Page 25: General Maintenance Warnings

    CHAPTER 2 HEALTH AND SAFETY Moving accessories If it is necessary to move the accessories, follow these guidelines: Disconnect the power supply before attempting to move the accessory. Disconnect and drain or vent any tubing that carries fluid or compressed air, including sample tubing, before moving the accessory.

  • Page 26: Optical Unit Warnings

    CHAPTER 2 HEALTH AND SAFETY Optical unit warnings WARNING! Before cleaning, always disconnect the unit from the power supply and computer and dis- connect all electrical cables. Ensure the unit is completely dry before re-applying power. Sample handling warnings Always handle all substances in accordance with the COSHH (Control Of Substances Haz- ardous to Health) regulations (UK) or any local regulations concerning sample handling safety.

  • Page 27: Fumes

    CHAPTER 2 HEALTH AND SAFETY Keep a record of all hazardous substances used in the system for protection of service and maintenance personnel. Always adopt responsible procedures for the disposal of waste samples. Most local laws forbid the disposal of many chemicals in such a manner as to allow their entry into the water system.

  • Page 29: Chapter 3 Site Requirements

    CHAPTER 3 SITE REQUIREMENTS Environmental conditions Space required MPT-2 titrator services Computer specification...

  • Page 30: Environmental Conditions

    CHAPTER 3 SITE REQUIREMENTS Environmental conditions The site must be: Away from strong light sources (such as windows) Away form strong heat sources (such as radiators) Well ventilated (for noxious samples) On a horizontal vibration-free bench built to support the weight of the system (shown below): Unit Weight...

  • Page 31: Space Required

    CHAPTER 3 SITE REQUIREMENTS Space required Provide enough space to allow easy access to all components and connections. Allow at least 800 mm above the bench surface for access to the cell area and accessories. The following table lists the component dimensions. Note: The height listed is with the cuvette holder closed.

  • Page 32: Mpt-2 Titrator Services

    CHAPTER 3 SITE REQUIREMENTS MPT-2 titrator services Nitrogen purge specification WARNING! A Nitrogen supply must be used in a well ventilated environment. The MPT-2 Titrator has a purge connector for connection of a Nitrogen purge supply. This can be used to blanket the area directly above the sample and prevent any absorption of Oxygen that may change the pH characteristics of the sample, for example, cause a pH drift.

  • Page 33: Chapter 4 System Overview

    CHAPTER 4 SYSTEM OVERVIEW Overview Optical unit Connecting the Zetasizer Nano...

  • Page 34: Overview

    CHAPTER 4 SYSTEM OVERVIEW Overview The following image shows a typical Zetasizer instrument and its components. A cell is filled with the sample and loaded into the cell area on top of the instrument. A computer with Zetas- izer software is installed and controls the instrument. 1.
  • Page 35 CHAPTER 4 SYSTEM OVERVIEW completion of each stage. Manual measurements tend to be used for one-off measurements or as part of a method development, for example, establishing the optimal settings for measuring the sample and then saving into a SOP file. Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) measurements —...

  • Page 36: Optical Unit

    CHAPTER 4 SYSTEM OVERVIEW Optical unit The following image and corresponding table lists and describes the components in the optical unit. 1. Optical unit 5. Cell area 2. Rear panel 6. Cuvette holder 3. Status indicator 7. Cells and cuvettes 4. Cell access button Two labels are positioned on the cover of the optical unit.
  • Page 37 CHAPTER 4 SYSTEM OVERVIEW Color and state Function “Standby”. Instrument is functioning correctly but is either not connected to Amber the computer or the software has not been started. Green Instrument is functioning correctly and is ready to start a measurement. Green - flashing Instrument is performing a measurement.
  • Page 38 CHAPTER 4 SYSTEM OVERVIEW The following image lists the components in the cell area of the optical unit. 1. Electrodes 5. Cell basin 2. Cell area lid 6. Access channel for Titrator and flow cell tibes 3. Thermal cap 7. Cell clamp 4.
  • Page 39 CHAPTER 4 SYSTEM OVERVIEW Cuvette holder The cuvette holder swings out from the instrument and is used for storing the up to 12 cells before and after use. For more information on the cuvette holder, see the Zetasizer Nano User Manual.
  • Page 40 CHAPTER 4 SYSTEM OVERVIEW Rear panel The rear panel provides all the connections. The following image and corresponding table lists and describes the components on the rear panel. WARNING! Do not obstruct the ventilation slots underneath the instrument or the cooling fans on the rear panel.
  • Page 41 CHAPTER 4 SYSTEM OVERVIEW Details about connections The following table lists and describes details about the connections on the rear panel of the optical unit, the main component of the Zetasizer Nano system. Real panel Description component Power input socket Mains power input socket for the instrument. Fuse for the instrument.

  • Page 42: Connecting The Zetasizer Nano

    CHAPTER 4 SYSTEM OVERVIEW Real panel Description component the Zetasizer Nano. A real-time parameter reading from the device can be dir- ectly inputted into the Nano optics unit and added to the Nano sample record. The Connector input voltage specification is: -5V to +5V (analogue). Connecting the Zetasizer Nano This section describes how to install the system for initial system setup.
  • Page 43 CHAPTER 4 SYSTEM OVERVIEW 1. Connect the USB cable to the connector marked USB on the rear panel of the Zetasizer Nano. 2. Connect the other end of the cable to the USB connection on the computer. 3. Connect the power cable to the power socket on the rear panel of the instrument. WARNING! This product must be connected to a protective earth.

  • Page 45: Chapter 5 Software Overview

    CHAPTER 5 SOFTWARE OVERVIEW Zetasizer software Measurement display Menu bar Installing the software...

  • Page 46: Zetasizer Software

    CHAPTER 5 SOFTWARE OVERVIEW Zetasizer software The 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 dis- plays the results and allows reports to be printed. The following image and corresponding table list and describe the components in a typical screen in the Zetasizer software.
  • Page 47 CHAPTER 5 SOFTWARE OVERVIEW Measurement file window The Measurement file window displays all the information for a single measurement file. You can display more than one measurement file window at a time. The contents of the window changes when a Record or Report tab is selected. The Measurement file window contains the following: Measurement file workspace When performing zeta potential measurements, it may be unnecessary to see para-...

  • Page 48: Measurement Display

    CHAPTER 5 SOFTWARE OVERVIEW Measurement display The Measurement display shows the progress of the measurement as the measurement is being performed. The screen display shown changes depending on the type of measurement being performed and the view tab selected. 1. Button bar 3.
  • Page 49 CHAPTER 5 SOFTWARE OVERVIEW Button Action window. Eject Zetasizer APS instrument only. Tab views The Tab views enable the progress and results of the measurement to be viewed. The first tab shows the results, and will change with respect to the measurement type and results view selected.

  • Page 50: Menu Bar

    CHAPTER 5 SOFTWARE OVERVIEW Menu bar The menu bar contains the main menu headings for all software functions. Menu name Description Use the File menu to either create a New Measurement or SOP file, or to open File an existing Measurement or SOP file. Use the Edit menu to move and manipulate records in the Measurement file Edit window(s).
  • Page 51 CHAPTER 5 SOFTWARE OVERVIEW 1. Insert the Zetasizer software CD into the CD drive. 2. If Autorun is enabled on the computer, the software starts to install automatically. Follow all on-screen instructions to complete the installation. 3. If Autorun is not enabled, select Start-Run-Setup and follow the on-screen instructions. Note: If the software is subsequently updated with a new version, any custom reports, para- meter settings and SOPs are preserved.

  • Page 53: Chapter 6 Quick Start: Using The System

    CHAPTER 6 QUICK START: USING THE SYSTEM Turning on the system Running the installation test macro Running a SOP...

  • Page 54: Turning On The System

    CHAPTER 6 QUICK START: USING THE SYSTEM Turning on the system If it is not already switched on, perform the following steps to turn on the Zetasizer Nano and start the Zetasizer software: 1. Close the lid and turn on the optical unit, switch on power at the power socket, and turn the power switch on at the rear of the unit.

  • Page 55: Running The Installation Test Macro

    CHAPTER 6 QUICK START: USING THE SYSTEM Running the installation test macro The Zetasizer Nano system includes an installation test macro and the Zeta potential standard. The installation test macro allows you to perform a Sizing and a Zeta measurement to run through the processes involved with preparing a sample, running a measurement, and also to ensure the system is performing properly.
  • Page 56 CHAPTER 6 QUICK START: USING THE SYSTEM Note: The results are saved to a measurement file named Installation Test.dts which opens automatically. 4. The instrument reports what it is going to test: size, zeta potential or both, as shown below. Tip: The type of test(s) performed depends on the instrument's specification –...
  • Page 57 CHAPTER 6 QUICK START: USING THE SYSTEM a. Tilt the cuvette and allow it to fill slowly. Tip: To stop bubbles from forming, let the sample flow down the inside. b. Check to ensure the sample depth is between 10 mm and 15 mm by placing the cuvette against the diagram on the inside of the cell area lid, as shown: Max: 15mm Min: 10mm...
  • Page 58 CHAPTER 6 QUICK START: USING THE SYSTEM 3. Push the lid securely onto the cuvette as shown: Note: Most cuvettes have a triangle or spot mark, as shown below. This mark must face towards the front of the Zetasizer Nano. 4. Click OK in response to the following prompt: 5.
  • Page 59 CHAPTER 6 QUICK START: USING THE SYSTEM 6. Push the cuvette down so that it is firmly located and then push the chamber lid down. 7. See Test results on page 54 to continue. Performing the Zeta potential test Cell preparation It is recommended to flush the cell to ensure cleanliness and reduce risk of bubble formation. The recommended procedure requires two syringes;...
  • Page 60 CHAPTER 6 QUICK START: USING THE SYSTEM 1. Flush the cell with ethanol to facilitate wetting. 2. Fill one of the syringes with the DI water and place in one of the sample ports on the cell, the empty syringe is placed into the other port. 3.
  • Page 61 CHAPTER 6 QUICK START: USING THE SYSTEM DTS1070 cell: 4. After inserting the respective cell into the cell holder until it stops, close the meas- urement lid as shown:...
  • Page 62 CHAPTER 6 QUICK START: USING THE SYSTEM 5. See Test results below to continue. Test results The Size and Zeta potential tests each take approximately six minutes to run. After a two-minute equilibration period, the software shows the test running, as shown: When the test finishes, the system displays a prompt indicating if the test passed or failed.
  • Page 63 CHAPTER 6 QUICK START: USING THE SYSTEM Note: Test results are stored as a record in the measurement file Installation test.dts. Passing the tests If the performed test or tests pass, it indicates that the system is set up correctly. If testing both the size and the Zeta potential test, the system first runs the Size test and then prompts for the Zeta capillary cell for the Zeta potential test.

  • Page 64: Running A Sop

    CHAPTER 6 QUICK START: USING THE SYSTEM CAUTION! Do not try to clean the optical area on the front of the “U” part of the cell as this will cause small scratches which can distort the result. Check that the capillary cell is filled. Ensure that the cell plugs are inserted firmly.
  • Page 65 CHAPTER 6 QUICK START: USING THE SYSTEM d. When requested, insert the cell into the instrument and wait for the temperature to stabilize. e. Click Start ( ). The measurement will be made and the results displayed and saved tot he measurement file you selected when you started the SOP. 7.

  • Page 67: Chapter 7 Maintenance

    CHAPTER 7 MAINTENANCE About maintenance procedures Cleaning cells and accessories Cleaning the covers Replacing the system fuse...

  • Page 68: About Maintenance Procedures

    CHAPTER 7 MAINTENANCE About maintenance procedures Note: Maintenance procedures and details of consumable parts kits for the individual accessor- ies are provided in their respective user manuals. An operator can perform all procedures except replacing fuses. Cleaning cells and accessories Clean cells thoroughly between measurements, especially between different types of sample. Cross-contamination between samples can seriously affect the results.

  • Page 69: Replacing The System Fuse

    CHAPTER 7 MAINTENANCE Replacing the system fuse WARNING! Fuses must not be replaced by the operator. Only the supervisor or a Malvern Panalytical representative should attempt to change the fuse. If the instrument does not power up, check the system fuses. These are in the mains power switch on the rear panel.

  • Page 71: Chapter 8 Regulatory Information

    CHAPTER 8 REGULATORY INFORMATION EU Declaration of Conformity Canadian Regulatory Information (Canada only) VCCI acceptance (Japan only) FCC Notice (US only) Disposal of Electrical & Electronic Equipment...

  • Page 72: Eu Declaration Of Conformity

    CHAPTER 8 REGULATORY INFORMATION EU Declaration of Conformity The CE badge on this product signifies conformance to the relevant European Directives — con- sult the Declaration of Conformity certificate for the product for more information. Canadian Regulatory Information (Canada only) This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of Com- munications.

  • Page 73: Fcc Notice (Us Only)

    CHAPTER 8 REGULATORY INFORMATION FCC Notice (US only) The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mark on this product signifies conformance to FCC regulations relating to Radio Frequency Devices. These have been satisfied by testing the product against, and being found to be compliant with: FCC CFR 47 Part 15:October 2011.Class A digital device.
  • Page 74 CHAPTER 8 REGULATORY INFORMATION Refer to local regulations on disposal of equipment; in Europe refer to the information below. Seek advice from the local Malvern Panalytical representative for details. Decontaminate the instrument if hazardous materials have been used in it. The following is applicable in the European Union and other European countries with separate collection systems.
  • Page 75 CHAPTER 9 SPECIFICATIONS Specifications (Optical unit) Chemical compatibility...
  • Page 76 CHAPTER 9 SPECIFICATIONS Specifications (Optical unit) The following table lists the specifications of the Zetasizer Nano optical unit. For a complete list of specifications and accessories, refer to the respective user manuals. All specifications are correct at time of publication, but may be subject to alteration. Parameter Specification Size...
  • Page 77 CHAPTER 9 SPECIFICATIONS Parameter Specification Molecular weight range 1000 Da to 2x10 Da (S, ZS, ZSP, S90, ZS90) † (estimated from DLS) Molecular weight * Molecular weight range 1000 Da to 2x10 Da (S, ZS, ZSP) † (calculated by Debye plot) 10,000 Da to 2x10 Da (S90 &...
  • Page 78 CHAPTER 9 SPECIFICATIONS Parameter Specification Type: HeNe gas laser Max. output power: 10 mW Beam wavelength: 632.8 nm Detector Avalanche photodiode, Q.E. >50% at 633 nm Condensation control Purge facility using dry air 0 ºC to 90 ºC (to 120 ºC with High Temperature Temperature control range option) ±...
  • Page 79 CHAPTER 9 SPECIFICATIONS Chemical compatibility Components of the Zetasizer Nano that may come into contact with the sample are man- ufactured 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 com- patible with the materials mentioned.
  • Page 82 Malvern Panalytical Ltd. Malvern Panalytical B.V. Grovewood Road, Malvern, Lelyweg 1, 7602 EA Almelo, Worcestershire, WR14 1XZ, The Netherlands United Kingdom Tel. +44 1684 892456 Tel. +31 546 534 444 Fax. +44 1684 892789 Fax. +31 546 534 598 info@malvernpanalytical.com www.malvernpanalytical.com...

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