What is ultrasonic dispersion used for?

Introduction to Ultrasonic Dispersion

Ultrasonic dispersion is an advanced technique used to break down particles in a liquid medium using high-frequency sound waves. This method is highly effective for creating homogenous mixtures where traditional mechanical methods fail. It operates typically in the frequency range of 20 kHz to several MHz.

Applications of Ultrasonic Dispersion

1. Nanomaterials Processing

Ultrasonic dispersion is employed extensively in nanomaterial processing, such as in the dispersion of carbon nanotubes and graphene. It ensures uniform particle distribution with particle sizes reduced to less than 100 nm.

2. Food & Beverage Industry

In the food and beverage industry, ultrasonic dispersion is utilized for emulsification, flavor extraction, and preservation, maintaining particle size below 500 nm to enhance texture and taste.

3. Pharmaceuticals

The pharmaceutical sector uses ultrasonic dispersion for drug delivery systems to enhance solubility and bioavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), achieving particle sizes less than 200 nm.

4. Paints and Coatings

In the production of paints and coatings, ultrasonic dispersion assists in achieving consistent pigment distribution, enhancing product uniformity and longevity. Dispersion down to 50 nm is achievable, ensuring color stability.

Mechanism of Ultrasonic Dispersion

Ultrasonic dispersion works on the principle of cavitation, where microscopic bubbles form and collapse in the liquid medium. This phenomenon generates intense shock waves and shear forces in localized regions, disrupting particle agglomerates. Key parameters influencing the efficacy include:

• Frequency: Typically between 20 kHz to 1 MHz.
• Power Density: Ranges from 10 W/cm² to 100 W/cm².
• Processing Time: Varies from several minutes to hours depending on material and desired dispersion quality.

Powersonic Company Solutions

Powersonic provides industry-leading ultrasonic dispersion solutions designed for various industrial applications. Their systems offer:

• High-frequency ultrasonic processors ranging from 20 kHz to 40 kHz.
• Scalable systems for lab to large-scale production, supporting up to 500 liters per batch.
• Energy-efficient systems with power output up to 3 kW, reducing operational costs.
• Customizable parameters to suit specific material requirements, enhancing process optimization.

References

1. Suslick, K. S., & Price, G. J. (1999). Applications of ultrasound to materials chemistry. Annual Review of Materials Science, 29, 295-326.
2. Eshtiaghi, N. M., & Gorji, M. (2018). Ultrasonic treatment: a unique technology for particle dispersion in liquid media. Journal of Cleaner Production, 170, 743-752.
3. Powersonic. (2023). Ultrasonic dispersion solutions. Retrieved from www.powersonic.com/ultrasonic-solutions.