New Dynamic Light Scattering System Launched to Global Audience

On 12 September 2012 Malvern Instruments conducted the global launch of an exciting addition to its Zetasizer family, bringing unique protein measurement and novel microrheology capabilities to this established and market-leading range of dynamic light scattering (DLS) systems. Introduced in the space of 24 hours, via a series of webcasts, to audiences around the world, the new high specification Zetasizer Nano ZSP delivers enhanced sensitivity and comes with advanced software that drives the two new measurement types.

Like other systems in the range, the Zetasizer Nano ZSP is a single, compact unit. It shares the simplicity and ease of use that have made Zetasizer Nano systems a firm favourite in industry and academia for almost a decade. Where the Zetasizer Nano ZSP stands apart, however, is in its unique performance specifications for both size and zeta potential measurement. One of the most significant applications being the measurement of the zeta potential, or electrophoretic mobility, of proteins. This process is further simplified by the inclusion of a new protein mobility measurement type in the software that controls data acquisition, guiding the user through the measurement and assesses and reports on data quality. The protein mobility measurement package is included with the Zetasizer Nano ZSP instrument as standard.

As well as the suite of new protein-specific features, the new version of Zetasizer software, launched together with the Zetasizer Nano ZSP, enables a brand new type of measurement on the instrument – Microrheology. This DLS-based optical technique allows rheological characterisation of weakly-structured and highly strain-sensitive materials using only microliter sample volumes. Amongst its applications are measuring the viscosity of polymer and protein solutions and determining the onset of protein aggregation.

Malvern’s extended Zetasizer family now includes the full Zetasizer Nano range of systems for characterising size, molecular weight and zeta potential measurement; the Zetasizer APS for automated protein size measurements in multiwell plates; and the Zetasizer µV designed for protein size and molecular weight measurements in both cuvette and chromatography modes (for example, in combination with a GPC/SEC system).