Morphologi 4

Rapid, automated particle size and particle shape analysis

Morphologi 4 provides detailed morphological descriptions of particulate samples through static image analysis, enabling a greater understanding of both sample and process.  It can equally be used as an R&D tool to investigate challenging applications and in automated QC analysis where generation of robust, user-independent results and validation are required.

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Features and benefits

The Morphologi 4 measures the particle size and shape of dry powders, wet suspensions and particulates on filters. Designed to accommodate the diverse needs of a multidisciplinary R&D lab, it is the ideal replacement for costly and time-consuming manual microscopy.

  • Broad particle size range, from 0.5 μm to over >1300 μm, enables size measurements of a wide range of samples
  • 20+ morphological parameters deliver a highly-detailed description for deeper understanding of your particulate material
  • SOP control, from sample dispersion to data analysis, provides simple and automated operation for robust, repeatable measurements
  • Automated ‘Sharp Edge’ analysis enables detection of even low contrast particles
  • Advanced manual microscope mode and ability to return to particles of interest enables an even closer examination of unexpected particles
  • High resolution microscope ensures quality particle images for optimum image analysis data
  • Integrated dry powder dispersion unit delivers reproducible sample dispersion, critical to achieving meaningful results
  • Dedicated sample presentation accessories enable measurement of a wide variety of sample types, including suspensions and filters
  • Advanced data exploration tools generate maximum sample knowledge
  • 21 CFR Part 11 software option ensures regulatory compliance
  • Conforms to standards: ISO 9276-6 and ISO 13322-1

How it works

Morphological workflow - no MDRS The Morphologi 4 measurement procedure can be split into four sections: 

Sample preparation  

Spatial separation of individual particles and agglomerates is critical to representative results.  The integrated dry powder disperser makes preparing dry powder samples easy and reproducible. The applied dispersion energy can be precisely controlled, enabling the measurement process to be optimized for a range of material types. Dispersion is achieved without explosively shocking the particles, avoiding the damage of fragile particles whilst ensuring strongly-agglomerated materials are dispersed.  Accessories that fit directly in to the Morphologi 4’s automated stage are available for preparing suspended or filtered samples.

Image capture 

The instrument captures images of individual particles by scanning the sample underneath the microscope optics. The Morphologi 4 can illuminate the sample from below or above, whilst accurately controlling the light levels. 

Image processing 

Use of either the automated ‘Sharp Edge’ segmentation analysis or the manually-controlled thresholding enables the detection of particles and the calculation of a range of morphological properties for each.

Results generation 

Statistically representative distributions are constructed for each parameter from the thousands of particles that have been analyzed.  Advanced graphing and data classification options in the software ensure that extracting the relevant data from the measurement is straightforward, via an intuitive visual interface. Individually-stored grayscale images for each particle provide qualitative verification of the quantitative results.

Specification

General

Technology Static automated imaging
Particle size 0.5 μm – 1300 μm (upper limit may be extended for some applications*)
Particle properties measured Size, shape, transparency, count, location
Particle size parameters
Circle equivalent (CE) diameter, length, width, perimeter, area, maximum distance, sphere equivalent (SE) volume, fiber total length, fiber width
Particle shape parameters
Aspect ratio, circularity, convexity, elongation, high sensitivity (HS) circularity, solidity, fiber elongation, fiber straightness
Particle transparency parameters Intensity mean, intensity standard deviation
Integrated Sample Dispersion Unit
For fully automated dispersion and measurement of dry powders. Manual or SOP control of
dispersion pressure, injection time and settling time
Illumination White light LED: brightfield, diascopic and episcopic; darkfield, episcopic
Detector 18 MP; 4912 x 3684 pixel color CMOS array; pixel size 1.25 μm x 1.25 μm
Optical system Nikon CFI 60 brightfield / darkfield system
Lens (and particle size range)
2.5x: 8.5 µm – 1300 µm (nominal)
5x: 4.5 µm – 520 µm (nominal)
10x: 2.5 µm – 260 µm (nominal)
20x: 1.5 µm – 130 µm (nominal)
50x: 0.5 µm – 50 µm (nominal)

Weight and dimensions:

Dimensions (W, D, H)
810 mm (W) x 520 mm (D) x 685 mm (H)
with carry handles: 1100mm (W) x 520mm (D) x 685mm (H)
Weight 76 kg (84kg including carry handles)
Power 100-240 V ac 50/60 Hz (<100W load)
Notes * Sample and substrate dependent

Accessories

Appropriate dispersion of the individual particles and agglomerates within a sample leads to robust and reliable results. Good spatial separation and representative sampling of the particles is required.  To achieve this, a number of dispersion options are available with the Morphologi 4.

Easy, reproducible, automated sample dispersion  

Morphologi 4 comes with an integrated dry powder dispersion unit.  It enables simple, reproducible preparation of dry powder samples. A precise amount of sample is dispersed automatically using a unique compressed air dispersion mechanism controlled from within the software, for reproducible dispersions every time. 

Optional accessories – for analysis of particles in suspension  

A range of instrument accessories supports preparation of samples on microscope slides, in wet suspensions or on filters, extending the capability of the Morphologi 4 beyond the characterization of dry sample dispersions. Each accessory fits directly into the automated stage area and is easily selectable in the Morphologi software.

Accessories to use when analyzing particles in suspension

Thin-path wet cell

The thin-path wet cell is designed for both morphological and chemical characterization of up to 100 μL of sample. It is ideal for applications such as the identification of subvisible particles in therapeutics (described by guidance in USP <787> and USP <788>), especially when a traditional membrane filtering approach may risk changing particles of interest, such as protein aggregates.

Wet dispersion cell

The wet dispersion cell allows between 2 ml and 6 ml of sample to be analyzed. This is particularly useful for characterizing larger particles or where volumetric particle count is important.

2-slide and 4-slide holders

‘Sandwiching’ a few μL of a suspension of smaller particles between a microscope slide and a cover slip is a traditional method of sample preparation for microscopy. Samples are presented in this form to the Morphologi G3-ID using either the 2-slide or 4-slide holder. Slides suitable for chemical identification applications are available.

Twin 35 mm petri dish holder

The twin 35 mm petri dish holder provides an alternative means of measuring suspended particles that may be at risk of being deformed when dispersed into a cell.

Accessories to use when analyzing particles captured on a membrane filter

25 mm and 47 mm diameter filter holders

Methods which are used to detect and characterize particles in suspension often rely on filtering the sample in order to capture particles on a membrane filter. Dedicated filter holders (25 mm or 47 mm diameter) and also the 2-slide holder (see above) allow samples on filter membranes to be presented directly to the Morphologi G3-ID for analysis.

Fused silica filters and holder

Fused silica filters are designed to enable the analysis of filtered samples containing low-contrast particles, such as protein aggregates or contaminant particles.  The fused silica filters are housed in a support for ease of handling, and are presented to the Morphologi in the fused silica holder, which can hold up to 2 filters.

Support

Protect your investment and ensure optimized performance at all times with Malvern Panalytical's service plans.

When you purchase a Malvern Panalytical product we understand that this is just the first stage of a working relationship that will last for the lifetime of the instrument. Depending on your needs, Malvern Panalytical will provide the support for your business.

Help Desk

Training

  • User training events

Software downloads

Malvern Panalytical's service options- choose the right plan for you:

Malvern Panalytical Platinum Plan

For laboratories where maximizing instrument up-time is critical to its daily performance. Our highest level of response and the 'all inclusive' price plan takes care of those unexpected repair bills should the unfortunate occur.

Malvern Panalytical Gold Plan

Enhance your laboratory productivity by maintaining instrument efficiency. Still receive that priority response, combined with specialist technical and software support, we'll keep your instrument performance on track to deliver.

Malvern Panalytical Bronze Visit

For laboratories looking to optimize instrument performance, regular preventative maintenance is essential.

Platinum PlanGold PlanBronze Visit
Annual PM/PV Test
yes
yes
no
Telephone / Email Support
yes
yes
no
Priority Response
yes
yes
no
Emergency Breakdown visits*
yes
yes
no
Parts Included
yes
no
no
Technical & Software Support
yes
yes
yes
IQ/OQ (Pharma)***
yes
yes
yes

*including labour & travel costs ***available at an additional cost

Key applications

Morphologi 4 provides value in a wide range of applications, some of which are described below:

Pharmaceutical development
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) and excipient particle size and shape are critical material attributes which must be understood and controlled during formulation development and process scale-up for both innovator and generic products.  Morphologi 4 delivers the statistically-relevant particle size and shape information to enable this.

Spray drying
Spray drying techniques are employed across a range of manufacturing industries because of the high fluidity of the granules that they produce.  This fluidity comes from the tight particle size distributions and specific particle shapes that are produced by the process.  These morphological attributes can be monitored by Morphologi 4, which provides statistically-relevant data to support the optimization of the process and to enable manufacturers to confidently specify their product.

Energy storage/Batteries
Controlling the application of the electrode material in the battery manufacturing process, and the resulting film density and uniformity, is essential in optimizing battery power and energy storage.  Morphologi 4 enables particle size and shape descriptions of the electrode material powder to be correlated with battery performance, to support product development and to ensure final product quality. 

Powder metallurgy
Metal powder properties, such as particle size and shape, are critical for powder metallurgy processes as they impact final component quality and performance.  Morphologi is used by metal powder producers and component manufacturers to ensure an optimum, consistent and traceable powder supply with the desired packing and flow characteristics, to mitigate the risk of costly part failure.

Mining and minerals
The morphology of geological deposits helps trace the extent of natural disasters and predict the impact of future environmental events. Particle properties also determine the effectiveness of abrasive minerals for use in cutting and polishing tools. Morphologi 4 automatically generates the statistically-relevant particle data required to meet these challenges. 

The only instrument that can measure the particle size range from low to high for polymer particles dispersed in water.

Ron Peters — DSM
Rapid, automated particle size and particle shape analysis.

Rapid, automated particle size and particle shape analysis.

Static image analysis ideal for R&D and QC. Automate your manual microscopy with advanced software and particle analysis with accessories for every sample.

Request a quote Request a demo Contact sales