Novel prototype instruments for real-time in-process nanoparticle detection in fluid streams using structured laser beam detection and flexible algorithmic diagnostics

The paper describes the development of a series of prototype particle analysis systems that use a structured laser beam combined with statistical and algorithmic methods to create a novel particle size analyser based on the concept of Individual Particle Sensing Approach (IPSATM). The system has a number of unique features that are highlighted in the paper. The conceptual system has been advanced by collaboration between a number of groups in Israel and Canada. The project focus is on taking a laboratory system that had proved to offer unique characteristics and developing robust systems compatible with in-process monitoring. With these systems, it is possible to test the capabilities of the measurement system on a number of potential applications and determine the suitability and performance for such applications. To make use of this phenomenon in a practical system, the structured beam is focussed to a diffraction limited spot that illuminates particles flowing through a measurement cell. The light from the expanded spot falls upon photodiodes where the intelligence in the modulated light is converted to electrical signals which are sampled at a high sampling rate. The challenges with taking the laboratory based proof-of-concept into an industrial prototype are significant. The potential applications for this unique and novel system will grow as application testing continues. Other potential applications are suggested in the paper.