Particle size distribution analysis as a characterization method for gel particles produced in suspension reactors

For gel beads produced in suspension reactors, the properties are usually assumed to be independent of particle size over the range of sizes within a batch. However, differences in equilibrium swelling among different size fractions of particles can be distinguished by analysis of the particle size distributions (PSD) of particles in two different swollen states. The method was proven effective in revealing differences in swelling as a function of size for hydroxypropyl methylcellulose gel beads that were not otherwise apparent. Since solvent sorption controls the useful properties of gels like permeability and is a reflection of gel synthesis variables, the ability to determine variations in properties with particle size is important to predict gel performance or to modify gel synthesis conditions to improve particle uniformity.