Simultaneous Light Scattering Detection for Nanoparticle Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light scattering measurement techniques are hindered by the presence of larger contaminants and aggregates, which degrade the measurement of nanoparticles, biomolecules, and viruses, especially in chromatography experiments and nano-particle dispersions, due to the sensitivity of light scattering to these unwanted particles.
Innovation Solution
A detection scheme using two or more photon-counting detectors and simultaneous detection logic that differentiates between light scattered at different angles, allowing for the measurement of particle size and mass in the presence of larger contaminants by gating out unwanted signals from photon-counting detectors based on thresholds set by supplemental detectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If light scattering measurement is used to detect nanoparticles and biomolecules, then particle size and mass can be measured, but larger contaminants and aggregates interfere with the measurement and degrade accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection task by using multiple detectors positioned at different scattering angles. Each detector monitors a specific angular range, allowing the system to separate and analyze light scattering signals from particles of different sizes. This segmentation enables selective measurement of nanoparticles while filtering out interference from larger contaminants.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces angular dimensionality to the detection system by arranging detectors at multiple scattering angles (e.g., 10°, 30°, 90°, 150°). This multi-dimensional angular detection allows the system to differentiate between particles based on their scattering angle signatures, enabling precise nanoparticle measurement even in the presence of larger contaminants that scatter light at different angles.
2Measurement precision
If multiple detectors are used to filter out contaminants, then measurement accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal detection system where multiple detectors serve dual purposes: they simultaneously characterize different particle sizes and provide reference signals for data analysis. Each detector contributes to both the primary measurement and the contaminant reference, reducing the need for additional specialized components and simplifying the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functions of nanoparticle detection and contaminant reference monitoring into a single integrated optical system. The same light source illuminates the sample, and the scattered light is collected by multiple detectors that simultaneously perform both measurement functions. This merging of functions reduces system complexity compared to using separate independent detection systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables precise measurement of nanoparticles and biomolecules by filtering out the effects of larger contaminants, improving quantitation and reducing signal interference, thereby enhancing the accuracy of particle characterization in dynamic and static light scattering experiments.
Implementation Method 1
the intensity of light scattered by particles smaller than the wavelength of light is a strong function of particle size
Implementation Method 2
In the Rayleigh Scattering limit where particle radius is below 0.1× wavelength of illumination, the scattered intensity is proportional to particle radius raised to the sixth power
Implementation Method 3
The mathematical treatment due to Gustave Mie can be used to predict the scattering from spherical particles in all these regions
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for measuring particle characteristics are disclosed. In one aspect, an amount of light arising from interaction between light and a suspended sample is detected simultaneously with the acquisition of a photon count from a different direction. At least one measure of particle characteristics can then be derived based at least in part on timing between information from the steps of acquiring and detecting.