Malvern Zetasizer nano Series User manual

Printed in England MRK1377-01
Malvern Instruments Limited
Enigma Business Park
Grovewood Road, Malvern
Worcs, WR14 1XZ, U.K.
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.malvern.com
Essentials
Zetasizer
Malvern
nano series

Zetasizer Nano
Essentials
MAN0382 Issue 5.0 August 2009
English
Man0382-5.0 (Zetasizer Nano Essentials).book Page i Wednesday, December 2, 2009 12:06 PM

© Malvern Instruments Ltd. 2007, 2009
Malvern®Instruments makes every effort to ensure that this document is correct. However, due to
Malvern Instruments’ policy of continual product development we are unable to guarantee the
accuracy of this, or any other document after the date of publication. We therefore disclaim all
liability for any changes, errors or omissions after the date of publication. No reproduction or
transmission of any part of this publication is allowed without the express written permission of
Malvern Instruments Ltd.
Head office:
Malvern Instruments Ltd.
Enigma Business Park,
Grovewood Road,
Malvern,
Worcestershire WR14 1XZ
United Kingdom.
Tel + [44] (0)1684-892456
Fax + [44] (0)1684-892789
Zetasizer is a registered trademark in the UK and/or other countries, and is owned by
Malvern Instruments Ltd.
Malvern and the green "hills" logo are registered trademarks in the UK and/or other
countries, and is owned by Malvern Instruments Ltd.
Windows XP is a registered trademark of the Microsoft Corporation.
Tygon is a registered trademark of Cole Palmer Instruments Company Limited.
Hellmanex is a registered trademark of Hellma GmbH & Co. KG.
Zetasizer is a registered trademark of Malvern Instruments (Zetasizer®).
NIBS and M3-PALS are trade marks of Malvern Instruments (NIBSTM, M3-PALSTM)
M3 is granted Euro Pat No: 1 154 266 DE FR
Printed in England
Man0382-5.0 (Zetasizer Nano Essentials).book Page ii Wednesday, December 2, 2009 12:06 PM

Addendum 0090-1.0 Page 1
Addendum to manual
Addendum number: ADD0090-1.0
Date: 01/09/2011
Manual number: MAN0382-5.0
Manual name: Zetasizer Nano Essentials manual
This Addendum presents new information for operating the Zetasizer Nano
instrument. The content should be read in-place of, or in conjunction with, the
sections indicated in the respective manual. The information detailed will be incor-
porated into the next manual release for the instrument.
Introduction
This manual covers the operation and maintenance of the Zetasizer Nano particle
analyser series.
Introduction - Read in place of relevant section on page 1-1 of the Zetasizer
Nano Essentials Manual.
Zetasizer Nano
instrument
Model
number Measurement types
Nano S (Red badge) ZEN1600 Particle Size and Molecular weight
Nano S (Green badge) ZEN1500 Particle Size and Molecular weight
Nano Z (Red badge) ZEN2600 Zeta potential
Nano ZS (Red badge) ZEN3600 Particle Size, Molecular weight and Zeta
potential
Nano ZS (Green badge) ZEN3500 Particle Size, Molecular weight and Zeta
potential
Nano S90 (Red badge) ZEN1690 Particle Size - 90° optics
Nano ZS90 (Red badge) ZEN3690 Particle Size and Zeta potential - 90°
optics

Page 2 Addendum 0090-1.0
Cleaning the cells
Cleaning the Surface zeta potential cell
Caution!
During cleaning it is vital not to let any fluid enter the top and cap area of
the cell assembly.
Any cross contamination of material from one measurement to the next could
affect the result, so it is extremely important to ensure the cell is completely clean
before use.
Cuvettes used with the Surface zeta potential cell
If a quartz cuvette was used for the measurement, it is recommended to clean
the cuvette with Hellmanex, and then rinse with copious amounts of de-ion-
ised water, prior to reusing it.
If a plastic disposable cell was used for the measurement, it is recommended
that this is disposed of and a new one used for all subsequent measurements.
General cleaning
As a complete assembly the cell can be cleaned using de-ionised water or with a
Hellmanex solution. If Hellmanex is used, the cell must be rinsed with copious
amounts of de-ionised water, prior to reusing it,
More efficient cleaning can be obtained by immersing the electrode and sample
holder in a gentle ultrasound bath (30 Watts) for 5 to 15 minutes.
Over time, it is likely that the electrodes will become discoloured or tarnished. This
is expected, and although it cannot be cleaned, this will not effect the quality of the
data obtained.
Cleaning the cells - Read in addition to relevant section on page 4-5 of the
Zetasizer Nano Essentials Manual.

Addendum 0090-1.0 Page 3
Intensive cleaning
Cleaning can be performed as described in the following table. The material and
chemical compatibility of each component is detailed in the User manual.
Once cleaned, leave all parts to be fully dry before re-using; especially the electrode
and sample holder area.
Component Cleaning method
Cell cap Wipe clean with a mild soap solution
Rinse with water once cleaned.
Outer casing
Sample barrel
Sample holder
Wipe clean with a mild soap solution
Rinse with water once cleaned.
Electrodes Scrub gently with pipecleaner and Hellmanex, then scrub with
copious amounts of de-ionised water.

Page 4 Addendum 0090-1.0

Zetasizer Nano Essentials Page i
Introduction to this manual
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Using this manual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Access to the instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Where to get help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Site requirements
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Environmental conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Space required. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Power requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Additional services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Laser safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
MPT-2 Autotitrator services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Health and safety
General warnings and Safety regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Electrical warnings and Safety regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
PAT testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Power cords and Power safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Laser safety regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Temperature warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Purge warnings (MPT-2 Autotitrator) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Sample handling warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Moving the system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Disposal of the instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Maintenance
Cleaning the instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Cleaning the cells. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Replacing the system fuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Table of contents
Man0382-5.0 (Zetasizer Nano Essentials).book Page i Wednesday, December 2, 2009 12:06 PM

Table of Contents Zetasizer Nano Essentials
Page ii MAN 0382
Man0382-5.0 (Zetasizer Nano Essentials).book Page ii Wednesday, December 2, 2009 12:06 PM

Zetasizer Nano Essentials Page 1-1
1
Introduction
to this manual
Introduction
This manual covers the operation and maintenance of the Zetasizer Nano particle
analyser series.
Instruments with a red oval badge fitted to the instrument cover have a 633nm ‘red’
laser. Instruments with a green badge have a 532nm ‘green’ laser.
High Temperature instruments have ‘HT’ on the main instrument label. High
Temperature and other build options exist for all the above instruments.
Zetasizer Nano
instrument
Model
number Measurement types
Nano S (Red badge) ZEN1600 Particle Size and Molecular weight
Nano S (Green badge) ZEN1500 Particle Size and Molecular weight
Nano Z (Red badge) ZEN2600 Zeta potential
Nano Z (Green badge) ZEN2500 Zeta potential
Nano ZS (Red badge) ZEN3600 Particle Size, Molecular weight and Zeta
potential
Nano ZS (Green badge) ZEN3500 Particle Size, Molecular weight and Zeta
potential
Nano S90 (Red badge) ZEN1690 Particle Size - 90° optics
Nano S90 (Green badge) ZEN1590 Particle Size - 90° optics
Nano ZS90 (Red badge) ZEN3690 Particle Size and Zeta potential - 90°
optics
Nano ZS90 (Green
badge)
ZEN3590 Particle Size and Zeta potential - 90°
optics
Man0382-5.0 (Zetasizer Nano Essentials).book Page 1 Wednesday, December 2, 2009 12:06 PM

Chapter 1 Introduction to this manual
Page 1-2 MAN 0382
1
Note
For the Zetasizer model, serial number, software and firmware version,
left-click the Nano icon in the right corner of the status bar.
Using this manual
Read the Health and Safety information in Chapter 3 before using the instrument.
For more detail on the Zetasizer software, use its online Help. Each window has a
Help button giving information about it. Advice buttons present more sample-
related content.
If using the MPT-2 Autotitrator, refer to the Autotitrator manual where neces-
sary.
Menu commands
Software menu commands are referred to in the form main menu-menu item.
As an example, the command Configure-New SOP refers to selecting the New
SOP item in the Configure menu. Menu commands are shown in bold text.
Access to the instrument
Malvern personnel
Malvern personnel (service engineers, representatives, etc.) have full access to the
instrument and are the only people authorised to perform all service procedures
that may require the removal of the covers.
Warning!
Removal of the main covers by unauthorised personnel, even a supervisor,
will invalidate the warranty of the instrument.
Supervisor
The supervisor is responsible for the management and safety of the instrument and
its operation. The supervisor also trains the operators. They can perform all user
maintenance routines identified in Chapter 4.
The supervisor has access to a more detailed manual in English.
i
Man0382-5.0 (Zetasizer Nano Essentials).book Page 2 Wednesday, December 2, 2009 12:06 PM

Introduction to this manual Chapter 1
Zetasizer Nano Essentials Page 1-3
Operator
An operator is a person trained in the use of the system. The operator can perform
all user maintenance routines identified in Chapter 4, except changing the fuse.
Warning!
Failure to follow these guidelines could result in exposure to hazardous
voltages and laser radiation.
Where to get help
Help desk
Direct all queries regarding the system to the local Malvern representative initially.
Please quote the following information:
Model and serial number of the instrument (located on the rear panel and the
front of the cuvette holder).
Options fitted; a small label alongside the model and serial number labels iden-
tifies any options fitted.
The Zetasizer software version (select Help-About within the software).
Contact the United Kingdom help desk if the local Malvern representative is not
available.
Direct line: [phone] or email: [email protected]. This help line
is primarily English speaking.
Remote support
Malvern Instruments offers a remote support service over the Internet. (A direct
Internet connection must be available.)
Benefits include fast and efficient fault diagnosis, reducing downtime and costs.
Online user training is also available, plus software updates.
Malvern Website - www.Malvern.com
The Malvern website offers a comprehensive range of particle characterisation
resources for use by customers 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Resources include software downloads, frequently asked questions, a knowledge
base and Application Notes, plus information on other particle characterisation
solutions that Malvern can provide.
Man0382-5.0 (Zetasizer Nano Essentials).book Page 3 Wednesday, December 2, 2009 12:06 PM

Chapter 1 Introduction to this manual
Page 1-4 MAN 0382
Man0382-5.0 (Zetasizer Nano Essentials).book Page 4 Wednesday, December 2, 2009 12:06 PM

Zetasizer Nano Essentials Page 2-1
2
Site requirements
This is a copy of Chapter 2 of the manual MAN0382 issue 5.0.
Man0382-5.0 (Zetasizer Nano Essentials).book Page 1 Wednesday, December 2, 2009 12:06 PM

Chapter 2 Site requirements
Page 2-2 MAN 0382
2
© Malvern Instruments Ltd. 2007, 2009
Malvern Instruments makes every effort to ensure that this document is correct. However, due to Malvern
Instruments’ policy of continual product development we are unable to guarantee the accuracy of this, or
any other document after the date of publication. We therefore disclaim all liability for any changes, errors or
omissions after the date of publication. No reproduction or transmission of any part of this publication is
allowed without the express written permission of Malvern Instruments Ltd.
Head office:
Malvern Instruments Ltd.
Enigma Business Park,
Grovewood Road,
Malvern,
Worcestershire WR14 1XZ
United Kingdom.
Tel + [44] (0)1684-892456
Fax + [44] (0)1684-892789
Zetasizer is a registered trademark in the UK and/or other countries, and is owned by Malvern
Instruments Ltd.
Malvern and the green "hills" logo are registered trademarks in the UK and/or other countries,
and is owned by Malvern Instruments Ltd.
Windows XP is a registered trademark of the Microsoft Corporation.
Tygon is a registered trademark of Cole Palmer Instruments Company Limited.
Hellmanex is a registered trademark of Hellma GmbH & Co. KG.
Zetasizer is a registered trademark of Malvern Instruments (Zetasizer3).
NIBS and M3-PALS are trade marks of Malvern Instruments (NIBSTM, M3-PALSTM)
M3 is granted Euro Pat No: 1 154 266 DE FR
Printed in England
Man0382-5.0 (Zetasizer Nano Essentials).book Page 2 Wednesday, December 2, 2009 12:06 PM

Site requirements Chapter 2
Zetasizer Nano Essentials Page 2-3
Introduction
This document outlines site requirements for a Zetasizer Nano. Ensure all these
are met before the instrument is delivered.
Environmental conditions
The site must be:
Indoors and away from strong light (windows).
Away from heat sources like radiators.
Well ventilated (for noxious materials).
On a horizontal vibration-free bench.
We recommend that the computer is positioned to the right of the instrument.
Space required
Provide enough space to allow easy access to all components and connections. This
diagram shows the recommended space for a system. Always place the Autotitrator
to the right of the instrument.
ill 7931
Allow at least 800mm above the bench surface for access to the cell area. The
system dimensions are given below (the width is with the cuvette holder closed):
300 mm
150 mm
150 mm 300 mm
1240 mm
750 mm
800 mm
(maximum)
Man0382-5.0 (Zetasizer Nano Essentials).book Page 3 Wednesday, December 2, 2009 12:06 PM

Chapter 2 Site requirements
Page 2-4 MAN 0382
Power requirements
The mains power supply must be clean and filtered. If necessary, fit an Un-
interruptible Power Supply (UPS) to remove any spikes or noise. The power
requirements are:
Power cords and Power safety
The notes in this section indicate best practice. Adhere to these when connecting
the instrument to the power supply.
Warning!
Do not operate this product with a damaged power cord set. If the power
cord set is damaged in any way, replace it immediately.
Warning!
Do not use the power cord supplied with this product on any other
products.
Power cord set requirements
Power cord sets must meet the requirements of the country where the product is
used. For more information, contact a Malvern representative.
Component Width Depth Height
Zetasizer Nano 320mm 600mm 260mm
MPT-2 Autotitrator 170mm 390mm 260mm
Computer and printer S e e m a n u f a c t u r e r ’ s d o c u m e n t a t i o n
Component Power requirement Power sockets required
Zetasizer Nano ~ 100-240V, 50-60Hz 1
MPT-2 Autotitrator ~ 100-240V, 50-60Hz 1
Vacuum Degasser ~ 100-240V, 50-60Hz 1
Computer See manufacturer’s documentation
Computer monitor See manufacturer’s documentation
Printer See manufacturer’s documentation
Man0382-5.0 (Zetasizer Nano Essentials).book Page 4 Wednesday, December 2, 2009 12:06 PM

Site requirements Chapter 2
Zetasizer Nano Essentials Page 2-5
General requirements
The following requirements apply to all countries:
The power cord must be approved by an acceptable accredited agency respon-
sible for evaluation in the country where the power cord set will be installed.
The power cord set must have a minimum current capacity of 10A (7A in Japan
only) and a nominal voltage rating of 125 or 250 volts AC, as required by each
country's power system.
The area of the wire must be a minimum of 0.75mm2or 18AWG, and the
length of the cord must be less than 3m.
The power cord must be routed so it will not be walked on, pinched by items
placed on or against it, or become wet. Pay particular attention to the plug, the
electrical outlet and the point where the cord exits the product.
Additional services
Purge specification
If measuring samples at low temperatures there is a risk of condensation occurring
on the cell; this occurs when the measurement temperature is less than the ‘dew
point’ of the ambient air surrounding the cell being measured. This is particularly
likely in humid climates.
The purge inlet port can be used to connect a dry air supply to the instrument, i.e. a
supply with a dew point below the target temperature. This removes any moisture
in the air immediately surrounding the cell and prevents condensation. The air
supply must conform to the following specification:
Compressed air to DIN 8573-1
Oil = Class 1
Water = Class 3
Particulate = Class 3
Pressure = 100 kPa g
For connection purposes, the purge connection uses an M5 internal thread.
Caution!
The purge air line supply must conform to the above specification. Failure
to meet this specification may result in permanent damage to the instru-
ment and invalidate the warranty.
Man0382-5.0 (Zetasizer Nano Essentials).book Page 5 Wednesday, December 2, 2009 12:06 PM

Chapter 2 Site requirements
Page 2-6 MAN 0382
Telephone socket specification
The telephone socket for remote support needs a direct Internet connection.
Computer specification
The Zetasizer software can run on a network but this is not recommended as, with
any software, running other software at the same time may affect the speed of the
Zetasizer software.
Contact the Malvern Helpdesk or website for the recommended computer
specification, otherwise consult the Software update notification document
supplied on the software CD.
Laser safety
Zetasizer Nano instruments are Class 1 laser products and as such, require no
special laser safety considerations during normal operation. However, during
servicing (which must be performed by a qualified Malvern representative), the
servicing engineer may be exposed to class 3b, or above, laser radiation. We
therefore recommend that the administrative controls recommendations of the
Laser Safety Regulations (IEC 60825-1(1993) +A1(1997)+A2(2001) are
implemented.
MPT-2 Autotitrator services
Nitrogen purge specification
Warning!
A Nitrogen supply must be used in a well ventilated environment.
The MPT-2 Autotitrator has a purge connector for connection of a Nitrogen purge
supply. This can be used to blanket the area directly above the sample and prevent
any absorption of Oxygen that may change the pH characteristics of the sample, i.e.
cause a pH drift.
If a Nitrogen supply is required it must conform to these specifications:
The Nitrogen supply must be dry, free from oil and filtered to remove any
contaminants that could affect the sample.
The flow rate should be adjustable between 2 and 20 ml/min.
Man0382-5.0 (Zetasizer Nano Essentials).book Page 6 Wednesday, December 2, 2009 12:06 PM