Particle size distribution analysis of sand-sized particles by laser diffraction: an experimental investigation of instrument sensitivity and the effects of particle shape

Sedimentology ◽  
2006 ◽  
Vol 53 (3) ◽  
pp. 671-685 ◽  
Author(s):  
SIMON J. BLOTT ◽  
KENNETH PYE
Author(s):  
S. Cazares ◽  
J. A. Barrios ◽  
C. Maya ◽  
G. Velásquez ◽  
M. Pérez ◽  
...  

Abstract An important physical property in environmental samples is particle size distribution. Several processes exist to measure particle diameter, including change in electrical resistance, blocking of light, the fractionation of field flow and laser diffraction (these being the most commonly used). However, their use requires expensive and complex equipment. Therefore, a Digital Microscopic Imaging Application (DMIA) method was developed adapting the algorithms used in the Helminth Egg Automatic Detector (HEAD) software coupled with a Neural Network (NN) and Bayesian algorithms. This allowed the determination of particle size distribution in samples of waste activated sludge (WAS), recirculated sludge (RCS), and pretreated sludge (PTS). The recirculation and electro-oxidation pre-treatment processes showed an effect in increasing the degree of solubilization (DS), decreasing particle size and breakage factor with ranges between 44.29%, and 31.89%. Together with a final NN calibration process, it was possible to compare results. For example, the 90th percentile of Equivalent Diameter (ED) value obtained by the DMIA with the corresponding result for the laser diffraction method. DMIA values: 228.76 μm (WAS), 111.18 μm (RCS), and 84.45 μm (PTS). DMIA processing has advantages in terms of reducing complexity, cost and time, and offers an alternative to the laser diffraction method.


2021 ◽  
Vol 24 (1) ◽  
pp. 49-55
Author(s):  
Kateřina Sedláčková ◽  
Lenka Ševelová

Abstract The article aims to present a comparative study of two methods used to determine the particle size distribution of fine and medium coarse soils. These methods are used to determine the grain size distribution curve in practice; however, for different purposes. The classical sedimentation method, based on the Stoke’s sedimentation law (hydrometer, areometric, the Casagrande’s method), standardized for a geotechnical classification of soils was compared with the laser diffraction method on the Mastersizer 3,000 analyser used for soil science purposes. The first comparison on nine samples showed significant differences, especially for larger fractions above 0.01 mm. All measured values of falls from laser diffraction analysis (LDA) showed higher values of all analysed fractions. It was also interesting to follow the trend between the tests for the preparation of conversion factors. The analysis also outlined the direction for further comparison. For the geotechnical use of the LDA, it will be necessary to take into account the sample preparation and processing before analysis.


2014 ◽  
Vol 28 (2) ◽  
pp. 195-200 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cezary Polakowski ◽  
Agata Sochan ◽  
Andrzej Bieganowski ◽  
Magdalena Ryzak ◽  
Rita Földényi ◽  
...  

Abstract The aim of this paper was to show how the shape of sand particles affects the results of particle size distribution obtained by the laser diffraction method. On the basis of the results obtained one can conclude: the shape of the investigated particles influences particle size distribution obtained by the laser diffraction method. This phenomenon occurs in the sand fraction, as shown in our investigation. The importance of this effect depends on the type of the measured material and on the aim of the investigations. For most researchers in soil science and sedimentology who investigate sand fractions, this impact can be negligible. Further investigations with other soil and sediment fractions are needed.


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