SOP for Operation of Malvern Zetasizer (Nano-ZS-ZEN3600)

OBJECTIVE

To provide standard instructions for the operation of the Malvern Zetasizer (Nano-ZS-ZEN3600)

SCOPE

The operation of the particle size analyzer is to measure particle size, molecular weight, and zeta potential.

RESPONSIBILITY

• QC analysts and related personnel are responsible for the implication of this procedure.
• QA head is responsible for regular and required amendments in the Standard Operating Procedure.

PRECAUTIONS

• Make sure to switch off the instrument when not in use.
• Cells should be cleaned prior to use. All sizes and Zeta potential cells should be rinsed/ cleaned with filtered dispersant before use.
• The cell should be filled slowly to avoid air bubbles. Ultrasonication can be used to remove air bubbles, but only if the sample is suitable for use with ultrasonics.
• When using a syringe for the dispersant, never use the first few drops from the syringe to avoid contamination of the dispersant by residual dust particles.
• Hold the cuvette from the top to prevent tampering with the measurements, and wipe the sides with clean tissue.

PROCEDURE

• Turn ON the instrument and wait for 1 hour for the laser to stabilize.
• Start the Zetasizer software.
• Choose the appropriate one for the measurement. Organic solutions can only be measured in a glass cuvette.
• Fill the cuvette to a depth of approximately 1 cm.
• Make a new measurement file, then select Measure → Manual.
• Click on the measurement type to choose the experiment type.
• Click on the sample and choose the name, and write any notes as needed.
• Click on Sample Material and choose your sample material from the list.

• You may add a new material if the refractive index is known.
• Choose a dispersant or add a new one as needed.
• Temperature: at least 120s equilibrium time should be allowed since the room is very cold.
• Cell type: choose a category and model.
• Measurement: duration and repetitions may be adjusted.
• Press OK to accept the measurement settings.
• Load the sample and press Start.
• To view the data, select a measurement and look through the tabs (e.g., intensity or volume PSD).
• On a particular tab, select Edit → Copy Size Values/Graph.
• Then the data can be transferred to an Excel spreadsheet.
• Turn off the instrument.

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

• Switch OFF the instrument.
• Switch OFF the mains for the power supply.
• Clean the instrument with a soft de-dusting cloth.
• Care must be taken that samples are not split on the instrument or in the cuvette chamber.

ABBREVIATIONS

QC: Quality Control

QA: Quality Assurance

SOP: Standard Operating Procedure

IPA: Isopropyl Alcohol

ANNEXURE

Nil

REVISION HISTORY

Nil

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