Analysis of Particle Size Distributions by Analytical Ultracentrifugation

Analytical Ultracentrifugation in Nanoparticle Analysis

Joshua Robinson covers the utility of fractionation in the investigation of complex mixtures and polydisperse samples as well as versatility of analytical ultracentrifugation (AUC) for colloid chemistry. He quickly reviews analytical ultracentrifugation (AUC) theory, then discusses deconstructing nano-constructs and how AUC has been used in recent literature to really probe the underlying structure of nano-constructs, nanomaterials. Other topics covered include nanoparticle sample preparation, as well as Beckman Coulter's research and future perspectives.

Analytical Ultracentrifugation of Carbon Nanotubes

Sedimentation velocity (SV) experiments on dispersed nanoparticles present an effective means for determining the hard-to-evaluate properties of nanoparticles. This webinar by Dr. Jeffrey Fagan focuses on leveraging the capabilities of SV methods for characterizing single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Results detailing the use of density contrast techniques on the characterization of the interfacial layer on specific SWCNT species demonstrate the power of analytical ultracentrifugation to resolve this interfacial layer. Dr. Jeffrey Fagan is from the National Institute of Standards and Technology and discusses the analytical ultracentrifugation of single-wall carbon nanotubes, as well as provides background information to apply to other nanoparticles. Dr. Fagan begins with an introduction to analytical ultracentrifugation and a quick explanation of single-wall carbon nanotubes. He discusses what we can characterize with the AUC technique, problems and pitfalls we might encounter, and a discussion about how those pitfalls can differ for different nanoparticles. Lastly, he provides two technical examples using the AUC measurement technique on single-wall carbon nanotubes.