Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) is a cutting-edge technique that visualizes and quantifies nanoparticles in suspension by tracking their Brownian motion. Utilizing laser illumination, high-resolution optical tracking, and algorithmic analysis, NTA provides real-time, particle-by-particle analysis, delivering precise measurements of particle size, concentration, and movement patterns. Unlike ensemble methods, NTA offers single-particle resolution, ensuring accurate and reliable characterization of heterogeneous samples.
Working Principle of Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis
Hyperion Analytical’s Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) technology integrates several advanced features, each optimized to deliver precise, reliable, and comprehensive nanoparticle characterization. Our NTA systems are designed to provide unparalleled insight into particle behavior and properties across a wide range of applications. The key components of our NTA technology include:
- Advanced Optical Illumination: A precisely configured laser beam creates optimal scattering conditions for particles suspended in liquid media. The system directly images the light scattered from nanoparticles in suspension, utilizing dark-field illumination. This targeted illumination system generates sufficient signal intensity for accurate tracking while maintaining measurement integrity across the complete size range. As the particles diffuse due to Brownian motion, the speed of their motion directly relates to their size, allowing for precise size characterization.
- High-Resolution Motion Tracking: Ultra-sensitive CMOS cameras capture real-time videos of individual particles undergoing Brownian motion. Each particle’s random thermal motion is precisely tracked through advanced image processing algorithms that extract positional data with nanometer-level precision.
- Stokes-Einstein Calculation Engine: Our Envision NTA Particle Analyzer applies the fundamental Stokes-Einstein equation to convert measured diffusion coefficients into hydrodynamic diameters for each tracked particle. The temperature is also measured, and the appropriate viscosity is used in the calculation. This physics-based calculation ensures measurement accuracy independent of particle composition or optical properties and no calibration is required.
- Fluorescence Detection: Our advanced NTA system incorporates a long-pass optical filter that only allows fluorescent wavelengths to pass through, effectively isolating labeled particles. This enables fluorescence detection for bio-specific identification, providing enhanced analysis capabilities. The calculations remain the same as in scatter mode, ensuring precise measurements that go beyond basic size analysis.
- Concentration Algorithms: Proprietary software calculates absolute particle concentrations through statistical analysis of particle detection rates within the precisely defined measurement volume, delivering quantitative results without requiring calibration standards.
Why Choose Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis
Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) offers several advantages that make it the preferred choice for researchers and industries dealing with nanoparticles. Here’s why NTA stands out:
- Single-Particle Resolution: Unlike ensemble methods that provide average measurements, NTA provides single-particle resolution, allowing for the analysis of heterogeneous samples and precise characterization of particle size distributions that are critical for quality control and research applications.
- Real-Time, Dynamic Measurements: NTA captures real-time particle motion, enabling the observation of dynamic processes, such as aggregation (clumping of particles), dissolution (breaking down of particles), and interactions in suspension. This real-time capability helps understand how nanoparticles behave in different environments.
- Comprehensive Multi-Parameter Analysis: NTA enables multi-parameter analysis of nanoparticles in liquid suspension. They help researchers to measure particle sizes, particle concentration, fluorescence intensity, and zeta potential, providing a holistic view of nanoparticle characteristics. This multi-parameter capability offers deeper insights into particle behavior and stability.
- No Calibration Required: NTA operates using absolute methods, meaning no calibration standards are necessary for accurate particle size and concentration measurements. This reduces complexity and ensures reliable results across different sample types.
- Minimal Sample Preparation: NTA requires minimal sample preparation, reducing the risk of sample contamination or alteration. It also needs only small sample volumes, making it ideal for precious or limited samples. Our Envision NTA has a built-in sample pump that ensures consistent, bubble-free sample loading, repeatable flow speeds, as well as easy cleaning cycles through an automated SOP.
- Non-Destructive Analysis: NTA’s non-destructive nature means samples can be analyzed without any significant alteration, allowing for sample recovery and repeated measurements if needed.
- High Throughput: Designed for high-throughput applications, NTA enables efficient analysis of large sample sets while maintaining precision and reproducibility.
- Versatility Across Applications: NTA provides versatility across a wide range of applications, from drug delivery systems and nanoparticle characterization to environmental monitoring and toxicology studies. This versatility makes it an indispensable technology in both academic research and industry settings.
Applications of Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis
Some popular applications of NTA include:
- Extracellular Vesicles (EVs)
- Exosome Size Analysis
- Nanobubbles
- Viruses and Virus-Like Particles
- General Nanoparticle Concentration Analysis
- Drug Delivery Nanoparticle Analysis
- Material Sciences
Discover how our Envision NTA provides precision and actionable insights across these applications.
Transform Your Research with Advanced Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis
Hyperion Analytical combines the advanced nanoparticle tracking analysis technology with world-class expertise to solve your toughest nanoparticle analysis challenges. Contact us today and take the first step toward advancing your research.