Model: Malvern Nanosight NS-300

Brief Introduction of the Instrument:

The Malvern PanalyticalNanoSight NS300 Instrument provides an easy-to-use, reproducible platform for nanoparticle characterization. The NS300 allows rapid, automated analysis of the size distribution and concentration of all types of nanoparticles from 0.01 – 1 µm* in diameter, depending on the instrument configuration and sample type. With the ability to be supplied with interchangeable laser modules and the introduction of a motorized 6 place filter wheel means different fluorescent labels can be analyzed. Sample temperature is fully programmable through the Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) software.

Technical Specification:

General
Technology – Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis
Size range (diameter) – 10 nm – 1000 nm
Particle concentration – 1e6 to 1e9 particles / mL
Minimum sample volume – 250 μL
Camera – High sensitivity sCMOS (USB-3)
Laser information – Beam wavelength (maximum power output): 405 nm, max power <70 mW
Temperature control range – 5 °C below ambient up to 70 °C
Temperature readout – Automatic
Syringe pump – Continuous sample flow with 1 mL syringes
Dimensions (W, D, H) – 34 x 35 x 25 cm
Weight of instrument – 11 kg
Weight of laser module – 1.6 kg
Power requirements – AC 110 – 240 V, 50-60 Hz, 4.0A
Ambient operating conditions – Up to 80% rH at 31 °C then decreasing linearly to 50% at 40 °C

Application of the Instrument:

Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) is a powerful technique used in various scientific and industrial applications for studying nanoparticles in liquid suspensions. Some common applications of NTA include:

Nanoparticle Characterization: NTA allows for the measurement of particle size distribution, concentration, and particle behavior (such as diffusion, aggregation, and sedimentation) of nanoparticles. It is widely used to characterize nanoparticles in fields such as materials science, nanotechnology, and environmental science.

Drug Delivery Systems: NTA is utilized to analyze and optimize drug delivery systems based on nanoparticles. It helps in evaluating the size and stability of drug-loaded nanoparticles, understanding drug release kinetics, and studying the interactions of nanoparticles with biological systems.

Biological Research: NTA plays a crucial role in studying biological nanoparticles, such as exosomes, liposomes, and virus particles. It enables the measurement of size, concentration, and dynamics of these particles, providing valuable insights into their roles in disease mechanisms, biomarker discovery, and drug delivery.

Environmental Analysis: NTA can be employed in environmental monitoring to assess the presence and behavior of engineered nanoparticles or natural nanoparticles in water or soil samples. It aids in understanding their dispersion, aggregation, and potential environmental impacts.

Quality Control in Nanomanufacturing: NTA helps in quality control and optimization of nanoparticle-based products in industries such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food. It ensures consistent particle size and stability, which are crucial for product performance and safety.

Limitation of the Instrument:

While Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) is a valuable technique for studying nanoparticles, it also has certain limitations. Some of the limitations of NTA include:

Size Range: NTA is most suitable for nanoparticles ranging from approximately 10 to 1000 nanometers in diameter. Below this size range, it becomes challenging to accurately track and analyze the nanoparticles due to their Brownian motion. Larger particles may also cause difficulties as they settle too quickly, making tracking more challenging.

Sample Concentration: High particle concentrations in the sample can lead to overlapping tracks, making it difficult for the software to accurately track individual particles. In such cases, dilution or sample preparation techniques may be necessary to achieve optimal results.

Particle Shape: NTA assumes spherical particles during the tracking and analysis process. If the nanoparticles have irregular shapes or exhibit different morphologies, the accuracy of the size measurement may be affected.

Sample Opacity and Interference: NTA relies on the visualization of nanoparticles through a microscope, so highly opaque or turbid samples can hinder proper particle visualization and tracking. Interference from other substances in the sample, such as impurities or aggregates, can also affect the accuracy of the analysis.

Particle Composition: NTA provides information about the hydrodynamic diameter of nanoparticles, which may differ from their primary particle size or size distribution. Additionally, if the nanoparticles have a complex composition or are coated with certain materials, the accuracy of the size measurement may be affected.

Data Analysis: NTA requires appropriate data analysis techniques to interpret the collected data accurately. The choice of analysis parameters, such as frame rate, camera settings, and tracking algorithms, can impact the reliability and accuracy of the results. It’s important to consider these limitations and assess whether NTA is the most suitable technique for a specific research or application. Alternative methods, such as dynamic light scattering (DLS) or electron microscopy, may complement NTA or overcome some of these limitations depending on the specific requirements.

Sample type and consumable needed:

For Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA), the specific sample type and consumables required can vary depending on the nanoparticles being studied. However, here are some general considerations:

Sample Type: NTA can be used with a wide range of liquid samples containing nanoparticles. This includes suspensions of nanoparticles in various solvents, biological samples (e.g., cell culture media, blood plasma), and environmental samples (e.g., water, soil extracts). The sample should be compatible with the analysis and should not interfere with the visualization or tracking of the nanoparticles.

Sample Preparation: In some cases, sample preparation may be required to ensure optimal results. This can include filtering the sample to remove larger particles or aggregates, diluting the sample to an appropriate concentration for accurate tracking, or centrifuging the sample to remove unwanted debris. The specific sample preparation steps will depend on the nature of the nanoparticles and the desired analysis.

Consumables:

Syringes and syringe filters: These are used for filtration and sample loading, ensuring that the sample is free from contaminants that may interfere with the analysis.

Pipettes and pipette tips: These are used for accurate and precise sample dilution or transfer.

Cleaning solutions: IPA, ethanol, and ultrapure water is required for the cleaning of sample holder and glass surface. Low lint wipes required for cleaning the surface.

Calibration standards: NTA instruments often require calibration with size standards to ensure accurate size measurements. These calibration standards can be purchased or prepared in-house using certified reference materials.