Analyzing dispersion in viscous media poses problems that differ significantly from those in low-resistance liquids.

The inherent resistance to flow in these materials impedes conventional techniques such as laser diffraction or dynamic light scattering, which depend on particle movement and thermal motion to generate reliable data.

Higher viscosity slows particle dynamics, resulting in prolonged acquisition, 粒子形状測定 lower precision, and misleading clumping effects.

To overcome these limitations, specialized approaches must be employed.

Another viable option is to thin the medium with a suitable diluent that maintains the native particle structure.

Nevertheless, the diluent must be chosen with precision to prevent reactions, expansion, or disintegration of the particles.

If dilution is not feasible, high-shear pre-treatment can be applied to break up agglomerates and promote uniform dispersion prior to analysis.

Reproducibility depends on consistent shear application, as too much force can fracture or deform fragile particles.

Another viable technique is the use of rheo-optical systems that combine viscometry with in situ optical measurement.

These systems allow real-time monitoring of particle behavior under controlled shear rates, providing data not only on size but also on how particles respond to flow conditions.

It offers critical advantages for fluids whose resistance varies dynamically with applied force.

Techniques like digital holographic imaging or flow-controlled automated microscopy provide direct particle imaging, bypassing the need for thinning.

When paired with a microfluidic device designed to manage high-viscosity flows, these techniques can yield precise size distributions even in thick suspensions.

Calibration against known standards remains essential to ensure accuracy.

It is also critical to account for the influence of temperature, as many high-viscosity fluids exhibit strong thermal sensitivity.

Measurements should be performed under controlled thermal conditions, and corrections applied if necessary to compensate for thermal expansion or viscosity drift.

Analysis must factor in broad size ranges and irregular geometries, typical of commercial slurries and polymer dispersions.

Advanced algorithms that analyze size and shape simultaneously improve the reliability of results.

Additionally, multiple measurement points across the sample volume should be taken to ensure representativeness, as sedimentation or stratification can occur in stagnant high-viscosity media.

For industries including pharma, edible products, and high-performance ceramics, particle size accuracy governs efficacy, homogeneity, and manufacturing success.

The optimal technique must align with both the fluid’s flow behavior and the particle characteristics, as well as the final application.

Integrating multiple methods, verified by mutual agreement and iterative testing, delivers superior reliability.

True success hinges on comprehensive knowledge of the material’s response and the operational boundaries of the instruments employed.