The Importance of Particle Analysis in Formulating Both Fine and Specialty Chemicals

WHITE PAPER

While fine chemicals and specialty chemicals are often referred to interchangeably, they are each a separate classification of chemical product. Both are formulated in small batches according to specific formulations and require specialized knowledge to manufacture, but they have different purposes. Together, they compose the high-value end of the chemicals market.

Particle characterization is important for evaluating product performance and optimizing a formulation for stability. It can determine whether a product has been formulated correctly or incorrectly.

In this white paper, we will investigate the importance of particle analysis in the manufacture of specialty chemicals and fine chemicals. While these chemicals come in both powder and liquid form, this paper focuses on:

• How fine chemicals are used to formulate liquid specialty chemicals that are two-phase dispersions: suspensions and emulsions
• Why particle analysis is critical to achieving the highest-value formulations
• Approaches to particle analysis and the special instrumentation used in the process