From pharmaceuticals and food production to construction, biotechnology, and environmental research, precise material analysis is the backbone of modern industry. Even the smallest variations in particle size often measured in micrometers or nanometers can drastically influence a product’s behavior, quality, and performance. But achieving both precision and speed in particle characterization remains one of the field’s biggest challenges.
That is where dynamic image analysis (DIA) comes in. This cutting edge technology is redefining how researchers and manufacturers measure, analyze, and understand particles in real time.
The Shift From Traditional Methods to Real Time Imaging
Dynamic image analysis allows laboratories to analyze vast numbers of particles quickly and accurately. Instead of relying on indirect measurement techniques, DIA uses high speed cameras to capture actual images of particles as they move through a sample chamber.
Dynamic image analysis has proven itself as a viable R&D and quality control method in various industries,
Dr. Christian Moitzi, Research & Development expert at Anton Paar GmbH
The company’s flagship device, the Litesizer DIA 700, is capable of measuring particle sizes ranging from 0.5 micrometres to 16 millimetres, visualizing millions of particles within seconds. “Thanks to the high frame rate and fast data transmission, we can image an unrivaled number of particles in a short time and analyse them in real time,” says Dr. Moitzi.
The Camera Powering Precision
At the heart of this innovation lies a critical component: the uEye Warp10 high speed camera from IDS Imaging Development Systems GmbH. Equipped with a Sony IMX255 global shutter CMOS sensor, the camera delivers 5.10 MP resolution at 220 frames per second.
Compared to conventional 1GigE cameras, the uEye Warp10 offers up to 10 times the transmission bandwidth, enabling lightning fast image capture without motion blur.
This combination of speed, high resolution, and low noise imaging is exactly what is required for applications like particle analysis,
Marcus Rembold, Product Owner for 2D Cameras at IDS
The camera’s ability to deliver real time, high fidelity data is essential in high throughput production environments where even slight delays or inaccuracies can have major cost implications.
How It Works: From Sample to Data
The analysis begins with preparing a representative sample, whether it is powder, granulate, suspension, or even biological material such as cells. For maximum accuracy with error rates of less than 1% more than one million particles are typically analysed per test.
Inside the device, particles are kept in motion through vibration, airflow, or fluid circulation. Moving at speeds of up to 30 meters per second, the particles are illuminated with stroboscopic lighting, using pulses shorter than 100 nanoseconds to eliminate motion blur. High speed image sequences are then processed using sophisticated algorithms to calculate size and shape parameters for every single particle.
Users receive real time data visualizations, including size distribution functions, with the ability to isolate and examine individual particles for deeper insights.
Real World Impact: Cement and Beyond
For industries like building materials, the benefits of DIA are tangible. Cement quality, for example, depends heavily on particle size and shape, which influence curing time, compressive strength, and durability.
“Particles that are too fine can cause the cement to set too quickly, while particles that are too large may not fully hydrate,” Dr. Moitzi explains. Poorly controlled particle properties can lead to cracking, shrinkage, or porosity which ultimately compromises the integrity of an entire structure.
By providing highly precise, real time particle characterization, DIA technology helps manufacturers improve product quality, optimize material usage, and reduce waste.
A Future Proof Investment
The integration of ultra fast imaging technology, such as the IDS uEye Warp10 camera, has made DIA a powerful alternative to traditional methods like laser diffraction. The result: faster decision making, reduced errors, and greater control over production processes.
“Investing in dynamic image analysis pays off in the long term,” says Dr. Moitzi. “With precise, real time analysis, manufacturers can optimize processes, minimize faulty batches, and ensure the highest possible quality standards.”
Investing in dynamic image analysis pays off in the long term
Dr. Christian Moitzi, Research & Development expert at Anton Paar GmbH
With precise, real time analysis, manufacturers can optimize processes, minimize faulty batches, and ensure the highest possible quality standards.
As industries continue to demand greater efficiency and accuracy, dynamic image analysis is proving to be more than just a tool. It is becoming a standard for the future of material science.
To discover more go to : https://en.ids-imaging.com/ueye-warp10.html
