BeNano Series

The BeNano series comprises seven models and represents a state-of-the-art generation of nanoparticle analyzers that integrate light scattering and transmission techniques.

 

Compare BeNano series models    

 

Features	BeNano 180 Zeta Max	BeNano 180  Zeta Pro	BeNano  180 Zeta	BeNano  90 Zeta	BeNano  Zeta	BeNano  180	BeNano  90
Particle Size - 90° DLS	√	√	×	√	×	×	√
Particle Size - 173° DLS	√	√	√	×	×	√	×
Zeta Potential	√	√	√	√	√	×	×
Molecular Weight	√	√	√	√	×	√	√
Microrheology	√	√	√	√	×	√	√
Refractive Index	√	×	√★	√★	×	√★	√★
Concentration	√	×	√★	√★	×	√★	√★
Sedimentation	√	×	√★	√★	×	√★	√★
Transmittance	√	×	√★	√★	×	√★	√★
Temperature Trend	√	√	√	√	√	√	√
VV Polarizer	√★	√★	√★	√★	×	√★	√★
VH Polarizer	√★	√★	×	√★	×	×	√★
Fluorescence Filter	√★	√★	√★	√★	×	√★	√★
Flow Mode	√★	√★	√★	√★	×	√★	√★
Autotitration	√★	√★	√★	√★	√★	×	×
★ Optional

If you're not sure which model is right for you, feel free to contact us here.

 

1. Particle Size Measurement — Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) 

 

Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), also known as Photon Correlation Spectroscopy (PCS) or Quasi-Elastic Light Scattering (QELS), is a technique used to determine particle size by analyzing the Brownian motion of particles in a dispersion.DLS is based on the principle of Brownian motion, which relates particle size to velocity—smaller particles diffuse more rapidly, while larger particles move more slowly. The scattering intensities of the particles are detected by an avalanche photodiode (APD) and then converted into a correlation function. From this correlation function, a mathematical algorithm can be applied to obtain the diffusion coefficient (D). The hydrodynamic diameter (D_H) and its distribution can be calculated using the Stokes-Einstein equation, which relates the diffusion coefficient to the particle size.

 

1.1 Backscattering Detection Technology 

Using backscattering optics, the analyzer automatically identifies the best detection position by evaluating the sample’s size, concentration, and scattering characteristics. This ensures maximum measurement accuracy while offering the adaptability needed to evaluate a wide range of samples with varying properties.

 

Features

• • Wider Concentration Range: By optimizing the detection position, highly concentrated samples can be detected near the edge of the sample cell, effectively minimizing errors from multiple light scattering.

• • Increased Sensitivity: Offers 8-10 times the scattering volume and approximately 10 times greater sensitivity as compared to traditional 90° optics.

• • Expanded Size Detection Range: By minimizing multiple light scattering from larger particles, this approach enhances measurement accuracy. Additionally, the significantly larger scattering volume helps reduce the number fluctuations of large particles, leading to more reliable analysis.

• • Better Reproducibility: Reduced effects from dust contaminants and unevenly distributed agglomerates, improving reproducibility

 

2. Zeta Potential Measurement — Electrophoretic Light Scattering (ELS)

 

In aqueous systems, charged particles are surrounded by counter-ions that form an inner Stern layer and an outer shear layer. Zeta potential is the electrical potential at the interface of the shear layer. A higher zeta potential indicates greater stability and less aggregation of the suspension system. Electrophoretic light scattering (ELS) measures electrophoretic mobility via Doppler shifts of scattered light, which can be used to determine the zeta potential of a sample by Henry's equation.

 

Colloidal Stability

Stable particle system	Unstable particle system
High repulsion force of particles High zeta potential	Flocculation, aggregation, sedimentation Low or zero zeta potential

2.1 Phase Analysis Light Scattering (PALS)

 

PALS is a more advanced technique than traditional ELS, which has been further developed by Bettersize to measure the zeta potential.

 

Features and Benefits 

• • Accurate measurement of samples with low electrophoretic mobility
  • Effective for samples in organic solvents with low dielectric constant
  • More accurate results for samples with high conductivity
  • Effectively measures the zeta potential of particles whose charge approaches the isoelectric point

 

 

3. Molecular Weight Measurement — Static light scattering (SLS) 

 

Static light scattering (SLS) is a technique that measures scattering intensities to calculate the weight-average molecular weight (Mw) and the second virial coefficient (A2) of a sample using the Rayleigh equation.

where c is the sample concentration, θ is the detection angle, R_θ is the Rayleigh ratio used to characterize the intensity ratio between the scattered light and the incident light at the angle of θ, M_w is the sample’s weight-average molecular weight, A₂ is the second virial coefficient, and K is a constant related to (dn/dc)².

 

Features & Benefits Non-invasive technique Suitable for particles dissolved in liquid Measures molecular weight of samples smaller than 30 nm Provides second virial coefficient A2, indicating the intermolecular interactions

Debye Plot

 

4. DLS Microrheology Measurement 

 

Dynamic Light Scattering Microrheology (DLS Microrheology) is an economical and efficient technique that utilizes dynamic light scattering to determine rheological properties. By analyzing the Brownian motion of colloidal tracer particles, information about the viscoelastic properties of the system, such as viscoelastic modulus, complex viscosity and creep compliance, can be obtained with the generalized Stokes-Einstein equation.

 

Features & Benefits

• Investigates rheological behaviors by measuring the thermally-driven motion of tracer particles within a material being studied 
• Facilitates the measurement of a broad frequency range in a single measurement 
• Suitable for dilute, weakly structured solutions
• Delivers fast results in 1–2 minutes with easy operation
• Offers rheological insights across a wide temperature range from -15°C to 120°C
• Complements conventional mechanical rheology

 

5. DLS Flow Mode Measurement 

 

DLS flow mode provides a high-resolution size result of a complex, polydisperse system. When combined with front-end separation equipment such as GPC/SEC or FFF, particles are separated into monodisperse fractions and flow through the BeNano in sequence by size. The size of each fraction is continuously measured and summed into a high-resolution size distribution. 

 

BeNano can acquire RI or UV signals, offering a more accurate volume and number distributions independent of the algorithm compared to a batch-mode measurement.

 

 

Features & Benefits

• DLS analyzer connecting with GPC/SEC, FFF, etc.
• Receiving up to 3 signals from RI, UV, or other detectors 
• 27 μL low-volume flow cell to avoid band broadening
• Size resolution as high as 1.3:1
• Size distributions weighted by number and volume, in addition to intensity
• Suitable for complex, polydisperse systems such as proteins, polymers, etc.

 

6. Temperature Trend Measurement 

 

Features & Benefits

• Programmed temperature trend measurement from -15°C to 120°C 
• Important for analyzing particle size and zeta potential across varying temperatures
• Easy examination of protein formulation stability 
• Accelerates real-time aging through elevated temperature simulation

 

7. Transmittance Measurement 

 

Features & Benefits

• Measures transmittance rapidly by detecting the light intensity transmitted through the sample
• Requires a minimum sample volume of 3 μL
• Sensitive indicator for evaluating batch consistency in industrial products
• Quantitative tool for identifying sample instability

 

8. Refractive Index Measurement 

 

The BeNano Series can determine the refractive index (RI) measurement of liquids with outstanding precision. A patented wedge-shaped cuvette holds the liquid sample while the CMOS detector measures the deflection of the light path after it traverses the liquid to calculate the RI.

 

Features & Benefits

• Patented technique supports a broad refractive index range from 1.2 to 1.6
• Requires only two calibration references and utilizes linear calibration suitable for extrapolation
• No tracer particles or prior knowledge of viscosity are required
• Enables DLS and ELS measurement for dispersants with unknown refractive indices
• Suitable for both organic and aqueous solvents

 

9. Concentration Measurement 

 

The BeNano measures particle volume fraction and number concentrations in particles per milliliter (particles/mL) for each population through the patented LEDLS technique. The incident light passes through the sample and reaches a photodiode detector, which records the transmitted intensity. By comparing it with that of a blank solution and combining the data with the particle size distribution from dynamic light scattering, the particle concentration is determined.

 

Features & Benefits

• Enables fast measurement with single-angle Detection
• Simplifies sample preparation with no need for calibration
• Ideal for screening-type measurements
• Suitable for both aqueous and organic samples

 

10. Sedimentation Size Measurement 

 

The BeNano Series provides particle size results based on the sedimentation method. The sedimentation rate of particles is directly related to their size, with larger particles settling faster. The PD detector monitors the changes in transmitted intensity over time, enabling the determination of particle size and distribution for particles up to 50 microns.

Schematic of the sedimentation method

 

Features & Benefits

• Expands size measurement range up to 50 μm 
• Suitable for samples containing both nanoparticles and microparticles, meeting the needs of broad distribution samples
• Provides volume-based size distributions for micron-sized particles, consistent with laser diffraction results
• Achieves up to 1.5x size resolution for multiple peaks

 

11. pH Autotitration Measurement 

 

The BAT-1 + Degasser units integrate seamlessly with the BeNano Series for automatic acid-base titration and isoelectric point (IEP) determination. The system automatically enables sample flow during measurement, ensuring high efficiency and consistent, operator-independent results, as well as precise titration.

An optional degasser is available to remove dissolved gases from titrants. Preventing bubbles improves the accuracy of zeta potential measurements.

 

Features & Benefits

• Accurate size and zeta potential analysis from pH 1 to 13 
• Enhanced safety with minimal exposure to corrosive liquids 
• Automated workflow reduces training needs and researcher workload 
• Fewer manual steps minimize human error
• Completes each measurement cycle in as little as 30 minutes
• Smart Titration: Based on the initial pH and the target pH, the required titrants can be chosen automatically via the software

 

 

 

Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) -Applications	Electrophoretic Light Scattering(ELS) -Applications	Static Light Scattering(SLS) -Applications	DLS Microrheology -Applications
1) Particle size and distribution of polymers, colloids, biomacromolecules, etc. 2) Research on thermal-sensitive systems, such as PNIPAm polymer. 3) Studies on polymerization process and reaction mechanisms.  4) Kinetics analysis of self-assembly, polymerization, and depolymerization, etc.	1) Particle suspensions, including colloids, proteins, nanometals, etc.  2) Industries such as chemicals, biology, water treatment, paints, etc. 3) Product stability control and monitoring 4) Stability research and control of the suspension system 5) Surface property and modification study	1) Chemical engineering: characterization of polymers, micelles, and macromolecules 2) Life science: characterization of proteins, polypeptides, and polysaccharides. 3) Pharmaceuticals: research on aggregation and stability of drugs and biomacromolecules.	1) Polymer solution 2) Protein solution 3) Gel system

Functions	Parameter	BeNano 180 Zeta Max	BeNano 180 Zeta Pro	BeNano 180 Zeta	BeNano 90 Zeta	BeNano Zeta	BeNano 180	BeNano 90
Size measurement	Size measurement range	0.3 nm - 15 μm*	0.3 nm - 15 μm*	0.3 nm - 10 μm*	0.3 nm - 15 μm*	N/A	0.3 nm -10 μm*	0.3 nm - 15 μm*
	Sample volume	3 μL - 1 mL*	3 μL - 1 mL*	40 μL - 1 mL*	3 μL - 1 mL*	N/A	40 μL - 1 mL*	3 μL - 1 mL*
	Detection angle	90° & 173° & 12°	90° & 173° & 12°	173° & 12°	90° & 12°	N/A	173°	90°
	Analysis algorithm	Cumulants, General Mode, CONTIN,  NNLS	Cumulants, General Mode, CONTIN,  NNLS	Cumulants, General Mode, CONTIN,  NNLS	Cumulants, General Mode, CONTIN,  NNLS	N/A	Cumulants, General Mode, CONTIN,  NNLS	Cumulants, General Mode, CONTIN,  NNLS
	Upper limit of concentration range	40% w/v*	40% w/v*	40% w/v*	40% w/v+	N/A	40% w/v*	40% w/v+
	Detection position	Movable	Movable	Movable	Fixed	N/A	Movable	Fixed
Zeta potential measurement	Detection angle	12°	12°	12°	12°	12°	N/A	N/A
	Zeta potential measurement range	No actual limitation	No actual limitation	No actual limitation	No actual limitation	No actual limitation	N/A	N/A
	Electrophoretic mobility	> ± 20 μm·cm/V·s	> ± 20 μm·cm/V·s	> ± 20 μm·cm/V·s	> ± 20 μm·cm/V·s	> ± 20 μm·cm/V·s	N/A	N/A
	Conductivity	0 - 260 mS/cm	0 - 260 mS/cm	0 - 260 mS/cm	0 - 260 mS/cm	0 - 260 mS/cm	N/A	N/A
	Sample volume	64 μL − 1 mL	64 μL − 1 mL	64 μL − 1 mL	64 μL − 1 mL	64 μL − 1 mL	N/A	N/A
	Sample size	1 nm – ≥ 120 μm*	1 nm – ≥ 120 μm*	1 nm – ≥ 120 μm*	1 nm – ≥ 120 μm*	1 nm – ≥ 120 μm*	N/A	N/A
Other measurements	Molecular weight (Mw)	342 Da - 2 × 107 Da*	342 Da - 2 × 107 Da*	342 Da - 2 × 107 Da*	342 Da - 2 × 107 Da*	N/A	342 Da - 2 × 107 Da*	342 Da - 2 × 107 Da*
	DLS microrheology measurement	MSD, G', G'', η*, J	MSD, G', G'', η*, J	MSD, G', G'', η*, J	MSD, G', G'', η*, J	N/A	MSD, G', G'', η*, J	MSD, G', G'', η*, J
	Refractive index measurement	1.2 – 1.6*	N/A	1.2 – 1.6*★	1.2 – 1.6*★	N/A	1.2 – 1.6*★	1.2 – 1.6*★
	Concentration measurement	1 × 108  particles/mL – 1 × 1012 particles/mL*	N/A	1 × 108  particles/mL – 1 × 1012 particles/mL* ★	1 × 108  particles/mL – 1 × 1012 particles/mL* ★	N/A	1 × 108  particles/mL – 1 × 1012 particles/mL* ★	1 × 108  particles/mL – 1 × 1012 particles/mL* ★
	Sedimentation particle size measurement	1 μm – 50 μm*	N/A	1 μm – 50 μm*★	1 μm – 50 μm*★	N/A	1 μm – 50 μm*★	1 μm – 50 μm*★
System parameters	Temperature control range	-15 ℃ – 120 ℃ , ± 0.1 ℃	-15 ℃ – 120 ℃ , ± 0.1 ℃	-15 ℃ – 120 ℃ , ± 0.1 ℃	-15 ℃ – 120 ℃ , ± 0.1 ℃	-15 ℃ – 120 ℃ , ± 0.1 ℃	-15 ℃ – 120 ℃ , ± 0.1 ℃	-15 ℃ – 120 ℃ , ± 0.1 ℃
	Condensation control	Dry air or nitrogen	Dry air or nitrogen	Dry air or nitrogen	Dry air or nitrogen	Dry air or nitrogen	Dry air or nitrogen	Dry air or nitrogen
	Laser source	50 mW Solid-state laser, 671 nm❈, Class 1	50 mW Solid-state laser, 671 nm❈, Class 1	50 mW Solid-state laser, 671 nm❈, Class 1	50 mW Solid-state laser, 671 nm❈, Class 1	50 mW Solid-state laser, 671 nm❈, Class 1	50 mW Solid-state laser, 671 nm❈, Class 1	50 mW Solid-state laser, 671 nm❈, Class 1
	Correlator	Up to 4000 channels, 1011 linear dynamic range	Up to 4000 channels, 1011 linear dynamic range	Up to 4000 channels, 1011 linear dynamic range	Up to 4000 channels, 1011 linear dynamic range	Up to 4000 channels, 1011 linear dynamic range	Up to 4000 channels, 1011 linear dynamic range	Up to 4000 channels, 1011 linear dynamic range
	Detector	Avalanche photodiode (APD)	Avalanche photodiode (APD)	Avalanche photodiode (APD)	Avalanche photodiode (APD)	Avalanche photodiode (APD)	Avalanche photodiode (APD)	Avalanche photodiode (APD)
	Intensity control	0.0001% - 100%, manual or automatic	0.0001% - 100%, manual or automatic	0.0001% - 100%, manual or automatic	0.0001% - 100%, manual or automatic	0.0001% - 100%, manual or automatic	0.0001% - 100%, manual or automatic	0.0001% - 100%, manual or automatic
	Dimensions (L x W x H)	62.5 x 40 x 24.5 cm (26 kg)	62.5 x 40 x 24.5 cm (26 kg)	62.5 x 40 x 24.5 cm (26 kg)	62.5 x 40 x 24.5 cm (26 kg)	62.5 x 40 x 24.5 cm (26 kg)	62.5 x 40 x 24.5 cm (26 kg)	62.5 x 40 x 24.5 cm (26 kg)
	Power supply	AC 100-240 V, 50-60 Hz, 4A	AC 100-240 V, 50-60 Hz, 4A	AC 100-240 V, 50-60 Hz, 4A	AC 100-240 V, 50-60 Hz, 4A	AC 100-240 V, 50-60 Hz, 4A	AC 100-240 V, 50-60 Hz, 4A	AC 100-240 V, 50-60 Hz, 4A
	Conformity to standards	21 CFR Part 11, ISO 13321, ISO 22412, ISO 13099	21 CFR Part 11, ISO 13321, ISO 22412, ISO 13099	21 CFR Part 11, ISO 13321, ISO 22412, ISO 13099	21 CFR Part 11, ISO 13321, ISO 22412, ISO 13099	21 CFR Part 11, ISO 13099	21 CFR Part 11, ISO 13321, ISO 22412	21 CFR Part 11, ISO 13321, ISO 22412
* Dependent on samples and accessories + Up to 40% w/v using capillary sizing cell # 10mW 633nm He-Ne laser available on request ★ Optional

 

1. Cells 

 

Standard
	Folded Capillary Cell BT-C1 Compatibility: Aqueous samples for zeta potential measurement Material: PC, Gold-plated Phosphor Bronze Min. Sample Volume: 0.75 mL Temp. Upper Limit: 70 °C		PS Cuvette Compatibility: Aqueous samples for size measurement Material: Polystyrene Min. Sample Volume: 1 mL Temp. Upper Limit: 70 °C
	Glass Cuvette  Compatibility: Aqueous/organic samples for size measurement, good sealing performance   Material: Glass Min. Sample Volume: 1 mL Temp. Upper Limit: 120 °C		Capillary Sizing Cell Compatibility: Aqueous/organic samples with ultra-micro volume for size measurement Material: Quartz Min. Sample Volume: 3 μL Temp. Upper Limit: 70 °C
Optional
	Folded Capillary Cell BT-C1-Pt Compatibility: Aqueous samples with moderate to high salinity (conductivity up to 260 mS/cm) for zeta potential measurement Material: PC, Platinum Min. Sample Volume: 0.75 mL Temp. Upper Limit: 70 °C		Micro-volume PMMA Cuvette Compatibility: Aqueous samples with  micro volume for size measurement Material: PMMA Min. Sample Volume: 40 μL Temp. Upper Limit: 70 °C
	Dip Cell Compatibility: Aqueous/organic samples for zeta potential measurement Material: PEEK, Platinum Min. Sample Volume: 1 mL Temp. Upper Limit: 70 °C		Micro-volume Glass Cuvette Compatibility: Aqueous/organic samples with micro volume for size measurement Material: Quartz Min. Sample Volume: 25 μL Temp. Upper Limit: 120 °C
	Flow Cell Compatibility: Aqueous/organic samples for DLS flow mode measurement Material: Quartz Min. Sample Volume: 27 uL Temp. Upper Limit: 70 °C		Micro-volume Fluorescence-filtered Cell Compatibility: Aqueous samples for size measurement, equipped with a narrow band filter Material: Quartz Min. Sample Volume: 16 uL  Temp. Upper Limit: 90 °C
	Micro-volume VH Cell Compatibility: Aqueous samples, eliminates the vertical element of scattered light Material: Quartz  Min. Sample Volume: 16 uL Temp. Upper Limit: 90 °C		Micro-volume VV Cell Compatibility: Aqueous samples, eliminates the horizontal element of scattered light Material: Quartz Min. Sample Volume: 16 uL Temp. Upper Limit: 90 °C
	High Concentration Zeta Cell Compatibility: Aqueous samples with moderate to high concentrations (up to 80% w/v) for zeta potential measurement Material: Quartz  Min. Sample Volume: 64 uL Temp. Upper Limit: 70 °C		RI Cuvette Compatibility: Aqueous/organic samples for refractive index (RI) measurement with a quartz wedge design Material: Quartz  Min. Sample Volume: 380 uL Temp. Upper Limit: 120 °C

 

 

2. BAT-1 Autotitrator 

1) Introduction  

The BAT-1 autotitrator, a highly recommended accessory for the BeNano series, is an ideal option for analyzing the zeta potential as a function of pH and determining the isoelectric point (IEP) of a colloidal system. It is equipped with three high-precision titration pumps with a precision of 0.28 μL, and the system can select the optimal titrant and adjust the addition volume intelligently to optimize titration efficiency and accuracy.

2) Features 

• Combination electrode with high precision and high feedback speed
• High precision ternary titration pumps
• Controllable peristaltic pump with high flow capacity and high flow rate
• Internal magnetic stirrer system
• SOP operation
• Replaceable tubes
• Corrosion-resistant design
• General-purpose electrode
• Intelligentization
• Determination of the isoelectric point

 

3) How it works 

The BAT-1 Autotitrator is designed to be used with the BeNano series for the measurement of zeta potential over a wide pH range, providing information on zeta potentials and the stability of samples in different conditions. The operation flow is as follows:

 

a) Preparing the samples to be detected and the titrants in the containers, respectively;

 

b) Creating or editing a titration SOP in BeNano software by setting the volume of the sample to be measured, the concentrations of the titrants, the initial pH, the target pH, the pH interval, and the target pH tolerance, etc..

 

c) To start the determination, the sample is titrated to approach the first pH value through automatic calculation, and is injected into the folded capillary cell by the peristaltic pump for zeta potential measurement;

 

d). Repeating the above procedures until approaching the final target pH automatically;

 

e) Saving and outputting complete data and the trend plot of zeta potential vs. pH;

 

f). Giving the isoelectric point if it is included in the setting pH range.

 

4) Download BAT-1 Autotitrator Flyer