News

Geologists use Mastersizer 2000

6 Feb 2009
Samantha Rosoman
Campaign Coordinator

Geologists at the Roma Tre University in Italy have selected the Mastersizer 2000 particle size analyzer from Malvern Instruments to support their research into rock fracturing within geological fault zones. The Mastersizer’s ability to handle a wide range of sample sizes, its sample dispersion capabilities, and easy-to-use software make it well suited for use in studies of the evolution of structural, petrophysical and hydraulic properties of fault zones.

In geology, a fault is a mechanical discontinuity within rocks which shows evidence of movement. Repeated slip events along this discontinuity eventually create a fault zone, characterized by an accumulation of crushed, fine grained wear material. Determination of the porosity, permeability, and particle size of this wear material is critical to many geological studies, enabling prediction of the frictional and hydraulic properties of fault zones and allowing researchers to calculate the rate of fluid flow through them. Such information is often critical for the oil and gas, mining and water resource industries. It can also be important in determining how energy is transmitted away from a fault during seismic activity or earthquakes.

As part of their investigations into the evolution of fault zones, Dr Fabrizio Storti and his colleagues have developed a method for particle sizing that relies on highly controlled parameters: “Our research requires a particular type of sample dispersion system that allows us to fine tune experimental parameters and minimize any inaccuracies associated with the analysis of fragile material,” explained Dr Storti. “Additionally, we had to find an instrument that could cope with a wide range particle size. During our experiments we need to carefully control a number of parameters, during both data acquisition and data processing.”

The industry-leading Mastersizer 2000 uses laser diffraction technology to measure particle size in wet and dry samples. It measures particles in the size range 0.02 µm to 2000 µm with no change to the optical set-up. Modular in design, it has a wide range of automated sample dispersion units for the measurement of wet and dry samples, making it suitable for many different applications.

Malvern’s comprehensive technical and applications support, often cited by users as an important part of their purchasing decisions, is delivered by Malvern’s local specialists, backed by the company’s expert teams and world-class scientists around the world. Interactive education and training is also provided via Malvern’s dynamic website, which houses a wealth of freely available information. This information-rich resource can be accessed at any time.

Malvern, Malvern Instruments and Mastersizer are registered trademarks of Malvern Instruments Ltd

Links

Tags