ASTM E3520-26

1.1 Concentrated colloidal dispersions/emulsions/formulations, such as flavor emulsions for beverages, paints and coatings, and vaccines, to name only a few, are expected to remain stable and well dispersed from the time they are prepared until they are used for their particular application. They also need to be returnable to a stable state when remixed after standing and settling over time. Again, paint is a good example.

1.2 Static multiple light scattering (SMLS) technology can be used to measure the sedimentation or creaming rates of particles, droplets, or bubbles from 10 nm to 1000 nm in these highly concentrated dispersions.

1.3 This technology can very rapidly measure these rates, in minutes, rather than the days it could take by visual observation.

1.4 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

5.1 Historically, the settling or creaming rates of emulsions, suspensions, and formulations took days of visual observation to determine their settling rates and whether they were stable over the long time periods necessary to remain useful for their applications. SMLS technology offers the ability to investigate the state of dispersion and its evolution over time rapidly and without any dilution even on highly concentrated samples.