The particle size distribution of a material deeply influences the technological characteristics of the product, for example:

• rheology of the suspensions
• porosity and density of shaped wares
• firing temperature of the wares
• opacity of the pigments
• reactivity of the powders.

It is possible to obtain information concerning:

• particle size distribution (cumulative and/or differential curve)
• influence of the grinding and/or pre-treatment operations
• indications on the behaviour of a powder, during its final use.

Technical features of the instrument

The most important features of the laser granulometer Mod. Mastersizer 2000, Malvern (UK) for the determination of particle size distribution are:

• wet dispersion of powders or other substances (possibly also with use of ultrasound)
• possibility to use water or ethyl alcohol 96% as suspension agents
• particle diameter from 0.1 to 125 mm.