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Zeta potential and dispersion stability

Linking Zeta Potential, Particle Size and Stability

Dispersion stability cannot be described completely by particle size or charge alone. Zeta potential, size measurements and physical-stability observations address different aspects of how a suspension or emulsion behaves.

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Microtrac NANOTRAC FLEX and STABINO ZETA Particle Analyzer for measuring nanoparticle size, paired instruments for nanoparticle-size and zeta-potential measurements
NANOTRAC FLEX and STABINO ZETA Particle Analyzer

Can a stable size distribution alone establish shelf life?

No. Size is one observation. Evaluate interaction conditions and the relevant changes over time before interpreting the formulation's physical stability.

A formulation change may alter interactions before a large size change becomes visible, while physical separation can occur for reasons not resolved by charge alone. Plan complementary measurements around the product and the time-dependent behavior being studied. Microtrac NANOTRAC, STABINO ZETA and TURBISCAN workflows address different parts of that investigation.

How can charge, size and separation be followed together?

Use matched portions of the same formulations. Record charge response with STABINO ZETA, particle-size changes with a suitable NANOTRAC or SYNC configuration, and physical separation over time with TURBISCAN. Align the formulation, elapsed time and storage conditions across the observations.

Method details to record

Linking Zeta Potential, Particle Size and Stability: method checklist
ConsiderationWhat to record
Formulation contextComposition and liquid environment
Measurement setSize, charge and physical stability
Comparison designTime and controlled formulation changes

How should an early charge shift be interpreted?

Check whether a size change or separation appears later under the same storage conditions. The time sequence can guide investigation of the formulation while leaving the product’s shelf-life criterion to its defined stability study.

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Review the equipment details and discuss the supported configuration for your sample.

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