Envision On-Line

The Online Envision NTA instrument measures particle size and number-based concentration of nanoparticles directly from a process stream.

Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) is the most advanced methodology for real-time characterization of individual nanoparticles in the 10-1000 nanometer range, enabling simultaneous measurement of size distribution, concentration, and dynamic properties through direct optical tracking of Brownian motion. It also gives a direct view of the sample for a qualitative understanding of the final result.

NTA also measures concentration directly by counting particles in a defined volume. This yields absolute concentration in particles per milliliter without calibration. Practical working concentrations typically range from 10⁶ to 10⁹ particles/mL in the viewing volume, although concentrations as low as 10⁵ can be measured with reduced precision.

The Online Envision NTA instrument allows continuous measurement of a process stream, providing continuous feedback for process control or equipment optimization. It combines the proven optical system of the laboratory Envision analyzer in a robust enclosure and a sampling system configured to the needs of the process line to be analyzed. Measurement parameters can be fully configured for continuous unattended operation. Sample is introduced with the standard syringe pump to provide reliable flushing of the sample cell and robust sampling conditions.

A prototype system has proven reliable in over two years of testing, measuring every 15 minutes for weeks or months of unattended operation. Routine maintenance is limited to cleaning the upstream filter for over-sized contaminants and replacement of the sample cell as needed.

Any process stream that contains particles in the appropriate size and concentration range is a suitable application. The particulars of an individual process may need to be accounted for in the sampling system design. The optical system is mounted in an IP weather-proof enclosure with a syringe pump to withdraw the sample from a slipstream from the main process line. Additional valves may be used to isolate the instrument fluidics from pressure fluctuations from the process during an analysis cycle.

• Potable water treatment or recycling
• Ultra clean water for manufacturing
• Nanobubble process systems
• Manufacturing processes to monitor contaminants or aggregates
• Where all particles should be dissolved