Micromeritics AquaPrep Water Deaeration System

Particle size measurement instruments often utilize deionized or untreated water as a suspension medium for particle dispersion during analysis. Typically, this water contains undesirable levels of dissolved gases, particularly those present in the atmosphere. During analysis, these gases can emerge, forming minute bubbles that significantly affect analytical results. Regardless of their size, the presence of bubbles distorts reported size distributions and degrades analysis repeatability.

For highly sensitive instruments like the Micromeritics Saturn DigiSizer, removing dissolved gases to prevent bubble formation is critical for acquiring the most accurate particle size data. The Micromeritics AquaPrep is a highly effective system for removing these gases from water, thereby providing optimal conditions for use with the Saturn DigiSizer.

The AquaPrep operates by recirculating water through a hydrophobic capsule containing numerous thin-walled capillaries. A vacuum pump creates low pressure outside the capillaries, facilitating the diffusion of dissolved air from the water through the capillary walls and into the vacuum pump. The extracted air is then exhausted through a small tube at the instrument's front, connected to a bubbler-type apparatus for performance monitoring. Under typical operation, the AquaPrep can prepare approximately 5 liters of water for analysis in less than 2 hours. As air bubbles scatter light similarly to particles, the AquaPrep significantly enhances the high-accuracy analysis of small particles. Its compact, rugged, and reliable design makes it ideal for a wide array of aqueous particle-sizing applications.