Malvern Instuments has launched a device suitable for the characterization of proteins and nanoparticles where the highest sensitivity for size and zeta potential measurement is required. The Zetasizer Nano ZSP can measure particle and molecular size (0.3nm-10μ for nanoparticles and 0.1mg/mL for proteins), electrophoretic mobility of proteins, zeta potential of nanoparticles and surfaces and the microrheology of protein and polymer solutions. The device can also measure molecular weight, second virial coefficient (A2) of macromolecules and the dynamic light scattering (DLS) interaction parameter (kD).
The system incorporates a two angle particle and molecular size analyzer for the detection of aggregates and measurement of small or dilute samples, and samples at very low or high concentration using DLS with Non-Invasive Back Scatter (NIBS) optics. The ZSP also incorporates a zeta potential analyzer that uses electrophoretic light scattering for particles, molecules and surfaces, and a molecular weight analyzer using static light scattering. Using NIBS optics, it has better performance than systems using 90 degree scattering optics. In addition, a microrheology option is available for measuring sample viscosity and viscoelastic properties.
The flow mode option enables the system to be connected to a size-exclusion chromatography or a field flow fractionation system to use as a detector for the size of proteins or nanoparticles. A choice of cuvettes are available, from disposable single-use to specific cells for viscous or high concentration samples or measuring the zeta potential of surfaces.
