Malvern Zetasizer Nano Series User manual

Zetasizer Nano Series
User Manual
Zetasizer Nano Series
User Manual
MAN0317 Issue 1.0 June 2003

© Malvern Instruments Ltd. 2003
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
Windows 2000 and XP are registered trademarks of the Microsoft Corporation.
Zetasizer, NIBS and M3-PALS are registered trademarks of Malvern instruments.
Printed in England

Table of Contents
Part 1 - Operators guide
CHAPTER 1 - Introduction to this manual
Introduction to this manual 1-1
How to use this manual 1-2
Access to the Instrument 1-3
Assumed information 1-4
Where to get help 1-4
CHAPTER 2 - What is the Zetasizer Nano?
Introduction 2-1
What does the Zetasizer Nano do? 2-1
The Zetasizer Nano range 2-1
What is Particle Size, Zeta potential and Molecular weight? 2-3
CHAPTER 3 - How does the Zetasizer Nano work?
Introduction 3-1
How is a Zetasizer measurement performed? 3-1
What does the Zetasizer consist of ?
- Identifying the Hardware 3-4
- Navigating the Software 3-13
CHAPTER 4 - Making measurements - A tutorial
Introduction 4-1
Quick guide to making a measurement 4-2
Powering up the system 4-2
Sample preparation 4-3
Choosing the correct Cell 4-3
Filling the Cell 4-8
Inserting the Cell 4-11
Making an SOP measurement 4-14
Making a manual measurement 4-16
The Measurement display 4-17
Editing the result 4-23
CONTENTS
Zetasizer Nano Series Page 1

CHAPTER 5 - Records and Reports - Viewing the results
Introduction 5-1
Displaying the results 5-1
CHAPTER 6 - Sample Preparation
Introduction 6-1
Preparing the sample
- Size 6-1
- Molecular weight 6-5
- Zeta potential 6-6
CHAPTER 7 - Maintenance
Introduction 7-1
Cleaning the instrument 7-1
Cleaning the Cells 7-2
Replacing the system fuse 7-4
Part 2 - Supervisors guide
CHAPTER 8 - Security
Introduction 8-1
Initial start-up - set up the administrator 8-2
Enabling security 8-3
User groups 8-3
Users 8-5
CHAPTER 9 - Using SOPs
Introduction 9-1
Creating an SOP 9-2
All SOPs 9-4
Size SOPs 9-10
Molecular weight SOPs 9-18
Zeta potential SOPs 9-22
Trend & Protein melting point SOPs 9-27
Extracting an SOP 9-29
Modifying an SOP 9-29
Distributing an SOP 9-30
CONTENTS Zetasizer Nano Series
Page 2 MAN 0317

CHAPTER 10 - Measurement file window - Workspace management
Introduction 10-1
Measurement file window 10-2
CHAPTER 11 - Exporting results
Introduction 11-1
Exporting results 11-1
Creating an export template 11-3
CHAPTER 12 - Creating custom reports
Introduction 12-1
Overview 12-1
Opening a report 12-2
Creating a report 12-2
Laying out a report 12-2
Customising and editing the report 12-4
A finished report 12-11
Viewing the new report 12-12
CHAPTER 13 - Size theory
Introduction 13-1
What is Dynamic Light Scattering? 13-1
Operation of the Zetasizer Nano
- Size measurements 13-6
CHAPTER 14 - Molecular Weight theory
Introduction 14-1
What is Static light scattering? 14-1
The Debye plot 14-4
CHAPTER 15 - Zeta Potential theory
Introduction 15-1
What is Zeta Potential? 15-1
Laser Doppler Velocimetry 15-5
The M3-PALS technique 15-7
Operation of the Zetasizer Nano
- Zeta potential measurements 15-11
CONTENTS
Zetasizer Nano Series Page 3

Part 3 - Appendices
APPENDIX A - Health and Safety
APPENDIX B - Specification
APPENDIX C - Site requirements
Introduction C-1
Environmental conditions C-1
Space required C-2
Power requirements C-3
Additional services C-3
Computer specification C-4
Laser Safety C-4
APPENDIX D - Unpacking instructions
APPENDIX E - Installation
Introduction E-1
Installing the Zetasizer Nano E-1
Changing the computer E-2
Installing the Titrator E-2
APPENDIX F - Regulatory Statements
CE Declaration of Conformity F-1
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Notice F-2
Canadian Regulatory Information F-3
CONTENTS Zetasizer Nano Series
Page 4 MAN 0317

Part 1 - Operators guide
Part 1 - Operators guide

Introduction to this manual
Introduction to this manual
CHAPTER 1

Introduction to this manual
This manual covers the operation and maintenance of the Zetasizer Nano particle
analyser series.
Zetasizer Nano
instrument
Model
number Description
Nano S (Red badge) ZEN1600 Size measurement particle sizer
Nano S (Green badge) ZEN1500 Size measurement particle sizer
Nano Z (Red badge) ZEN2600 Zeta potential particle sizer
Nano Z (Green badge) ZEN2500 Zeta potential particle sizer
Nano ZS (Red badge) ZEN3600 Size and Zeta potential particle sizer
Nano ZS (Green badge) ZEN3500 Size and Zeta potential particle sizer
Nano S90 (Red badge) ZEN1690 Size measurement particle sizer - 90° optics
Nano S90 (Green badge) ZEN1590 Size measurement particle sizer - 90° optics
Nano ZS90 (Red badge) ZEN3690 Size and Zeta potential particle sizer - 90° optics
Nano ZS90 (Green badge) ZEN3590 Size and Zeta potential particle sizer - 90° optics
Instruments that have a red oval badge fitted to the instrument cover are fitted
with a 633nm ‘red’ laser; instruments that have a green badge are fitted with a
532nm ‘green’ laser.
Build options exist for each of the above instruments, these are described in
chapter 2.
'Note .The Zetasizer model, Serial number, software and firmware version can
be found by left-clicking the Nano icon in the right corner of the status
bar.
The aim of this manual is to:
.Identify what the instrument is.
.Explain in simple terms how it works.
CHAPTER 1
Zetasizer Nano Series Page 1.1

.Explain how the instrument should be used to make a measurement.
.Identify the user maintenance procedures.
How to use this manual
It is important to read the Health and Safety information in appendix A before
operating the instrument.
It is recommended this manual is read fully before you start your first
measurement, though if more familiar with particle size analysers, jump straight
to chapter 4 - “Making measurements - A tutorial”. This chapter gives practical
details on making measurements.
The manual is divided into 3 sections.
Part 1 – Operators guide
Contains all the information required for the operator to use the Zetasizer Nano
instruments.
Topics covered are: What are the Zetasizer Nano instruments, what are the
components of the Zetasizer Nano and what do they do, instructions on using the
instrument and the software, basic measurement and maintenance procedures.
Part 2 – Supervisors guide
The Supervisors guide concentrates on the administration and creation of the
Zetasizer functionality. It provides a greater insight into the measurement
procedures and results expanding the analysis theories.
Topics covered are: security aspects, use of Standard Operating Procedures
(SOPs), and organising the measurement files, and discussion on each of the
analysis theories used – Zeta potential, Size and Molecular weight.
It is recommended that the supervisor should also read Part 1 – Operators guide
Part 3 - Appendices
Contains supplementary information not necessary for the general operation of
the system.
More detail on the Zetasizer software can be found by using the online Help
within the software.
CHAPTER 1 Zetasizer Nano Series
Page 1.2 MAN 0317

The Zetasizer Nano measures three different particle characteristics; the text
within each chapter has therefore been structured to, detail the instrument
functions as applicable to all measurements types, or individually if the function
only applies to one, i.e. if concerned only with zeta potential measurements
ignore all references to size and molecular weight unless otherwise directed.
Access to the Instrument
Within this manual, reference is made to the various people who will have 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!
Supervisor
The supervisor is the person responsible for the management and safety of the
instrument and its operation. The supervisor is responsible for the training of the
operators. They can perform all user maintenance routines identified in chapter 7.
Under no circumstances, should the supervisor remove the main cover of the
instrument.
Operator
An operator is a person trained in the use of the system. The operator can
perform all user maintenance routines identified in chapter 7, except changing the
fuse.
Under no circumstances, should the operator remove the main cover of the
instrument.
CHAPTER 1
Zetasizer Nano Series Page 1.3
Removal of the covers by unauthorised personnel will invalidate the
warranty of the instrument.

#
Warning!
Assumed information
Naming convention
The Zetasizer Nano will either be referred to in full, as the Zetasizer, or as the
‘instrument’.
The combination of the Zetasizer Nano instrument, the computer and Zetasizer
software will be referred to as the "System".
Cells and Cuvettes
Any device for holding and measuring the sample in the instrument will generally
be referred to as a “cell”. This includes dip cells and all kinds of cuvettes used (i.e.
glass, small volume, disposable) unless a proper description is more appropriate.
Menu commands
Menu commands from the Zetasizer software 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
always shown in bold text.
Where to get help
Manual and Help files
The primary source of help for the Zetasizer system is from this manual and the
online help system within the software. This manual is designed to give an
overview of the system as a whole, while the online help system is designed to
give detailed information on the Zetasizer software.
CHAPTER 1 Zetasizer Nano Series
Page 1.4 MAN 0317
Failure to follow these guidelines could result in exposure to hazardous
voltages and laser radiation.

Each dialogue within the Zetasizer software has a Help button that gives
information specific to that dialogue. A secondary type of help exists within the
dialogue; this is the Advice button and contains more sample related content.
Help desk
All queries regarding the system should initially be directed to the local Malvern
representative. Please quote the following information:
.Model and serial number of the instrument (located on the rear panel and
the front of the cuvette holder).
.The build option fitted: a smaller label attached alongside the model and
serial number labels identifies 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. The direct line to the United Kingdom Helpdesk is +44 (0) 1684
891800. It should be noted that this help line is primarily English speaking.
Remote support
Malvern Instruments offers a remote support service, delivered by an Internet
connection. Benefits include fast and efficient fault diagnosis, reducing downtime
and costs.
On-line user training is also available, plus software updates. A direct Internet
connection LAN must be available to make use of this facility.
CHAPTER 1
Zetasizer Nano Series Page 1.5

CHAPTER 1 Zetasizer Nano Series
Page 1.6 MAN 0317

What is the Zetasizer Nano?
What is the Zetasizer Nano?
CHAPTER 2

Introduction
What is the Zetasizer Nano system and what is it supposed to do?
This chapter gives a brief overview of the Zetasizer Nano instrument range: what
the Zetasizer Nano does and simple explanations about the measurement
technique.
What does the Zetasizer Nano do?
The Zetasizer Nano range of instruments provides the ability to measure three
characteristics of particles or molecules in a liquid medium.
These three fundamental parameters are Particle size,Zeta potential and
Molecular weight. By using the unique technology within the Zetasizer system
these parameters can be measured over a wide range of concentrations. The
Zetasizer system also enables determination of the Protein melting point plus
the ability to perform Trend measurements.
The Zetasizer range features pre-aligned optics and programmable measurement
position plus the precise temperature control necessary for reproducible,
repeatable and accurate measurements. In addition facility is included for
measurements of other key parameters such as pH and concentration.
The Zetasizer range has been designed with simplicity in mind, so that a minimal
amount of user interaction is necessary to achieve excellent results. The use of
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and features such as the Folded
capillary cell alleviate the need for constant attention.
The Zetasizer Nano range
There are ten instruments in the Zetasizer Nano particle analyser range: five
different models fitted with either a 633nm ‘red’ or 532nm ‘green’ laser. The
models and their measurement specifications are described in the table below,
with instrument options following.
CHAPTER 2
Zetasizer Nano Series Page 2.1

Zetasizer Size range Size range for Zeta potential Size range for Molecular weight Instrument option (see below)
Nano S – 3nm to 10µm – >?@
Nano Z 0.6nm to 6µm – 1000 to 2x107Daltons >
Nano ZS 0.6nm to 6µm 3nm to 10µm 1000 to 2x107Daltons >?@
Nano S90 2nm to 3µm – – >
Nano ZS90 2nm to 3µm 3nm to 10µm – >?@
Laser fitted
The Zetasizer Nano series is available with either a 633nm ‘red’ laser or a 532nm
‘green’ laser fitted. The laser fitted is identified by the colour of the oval badge on
the cover.
.The 633nm laser is least suitable for blue samples.
.The 532nm laser is least suitable for red samples.
90° optics
The instruments above with the suffix 90 indicate the optics have a 90° scattering
angle. These models have been included in the Zetasizer Nano instrument range
to provide continuity with other instruments with ‘classical’ 90° optics.
Instrument options
A range of accessories and options are also available for more advanced
measurement strategies.
>Narrow band filter
This filter improves the signal for samples that fluoresce at the wavelength
of the laser fitted. If fitted an option label will be attached to the front of the
cuvette holder.
CHAPTER 2 Zetasizer Nano Series
Page 2.2 MAN 0317