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Richard J Lee 5 min read

The Importance of Particle Characterization


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Richard J Lee


Particle characterization is used in a variety of industries and applications to ensure everything from quality control to safety to material performance. Particle characterization is a cornerstone of research and development, and over the years, laboratories have developed many types of particle analysis technologies and services. To understand the role that particle characterization plays in our everyday lives, let's look at four key applications that show the vital importance of this tool.

 Scientists in lab coats working in a pharmaceutical lab
Use Case #1: Ensuring the Safety and Efficacy of Pharmaceuticals


Particle characterization is crucial in biopharmaceuticals to ensure the safety and efficacy of all therapies. Standards for particles are outlined in United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Chapter 429: Light Diffraction Measurement of Particle Size and USP Chapter 788: Particulate Matter in Injections.

Particles can originate from various sources such as the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), formulation excipients, or the production process itself. These particles can negatively influence the safety and efficacy of therapies, making precise particle analysis essential for regulatory compliance and product quality.

Understanding particle size, shape, and distribution helps optimize formulations and ensure consistent therapeutic effects.

 

 

Use Case #2: Enhancing Material Performance and Quality Control

Particle characterization is vital for predicting and enhancing the performance of various types of materials. Knowing particle parameters such as size, shape, and surface area can help to accurately predict the behavior of that material under various conditions.

These characteristics are also critical for determining quality and functionality, a crucial component in maintaining quality control for everything from mining to additive manufacturing. Accurate particle analysis helps in maintaining batch-to-batch consistency, improving product quality, and meeting industry standards.

Airborne Particles as seen under a scanning electron microscope

Use Case #3: Identifying and Mitigating Contamination

Identifying unknown particles or contaminants is essential for quality control, safety, and compliance. Particle identification is essential in detecting what contaminants may exist as well as identifying the source of the contaminant.

This process is crucial for maintaining product integrity, preventing recalls, and ensuring consumer safety. Detailed particle analysis helps manufacturers address contamination issues early in the production process, thereby reducing potential risk and liability.

 

Overhead view of an SEM
Use Case #4:
Supporting Research and Development

Particle characterization supports the research and development of new materials and technologies. The role of particle analysis is critical in understanding material properties at atomic or molecular scales. This information is crucial for developing innovative materials with desired characteristics, enhancing the effectiveness of catalysts, and optimizing drug delivery systems.

Particle Characterization and RJ Lee Group

RJ Lee Group has the most advanced particle characterization capability in the world. Our integration of laser diffraction and automated SEM is truly unique, and we offer size distribution, shape distribution, texture, and imaging in one low-cost package.

We provide nanoparticle characterization by high-resolution SEM and TEM, and we characterize organic and inorganic materials, metals and minerals for our clients across a wide range of industries and applications.

We utilize a range of technologies to meet our customer’s needs, including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM), and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDS).

Our team of scientific experts provides the skills and experience to interpret results and provide consultation on causes, sources, and corrective actions. RJ Lee Group is your scientific partner for particle analysis and characterization.

 

 

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