Analysis of sedimentation dynamics

Sedimentation dynamics analysis is an essential method for assessing the physical stability of dispersed systems containing suspended particles. It involves measuring the settling rate over time and characterizing phase separation phenomena. This approach is widely used in the food, cosmetics, animal nutrition, environmental, plant, and polymer materials sectors. For any liquid or semi-liquid product susceptible to destabilized sedimentation, this analysis is an indispensable quality control and R&D tool.

Principle and operation of the analysis

Sedimentation dynamics rely on observing particle movement under the influence of gravity or centrifugal forces. Analysis can be performed using a stability analyzer, particularly turbidimetry or optical imaging technologies, or via an analytical centrifuge that artificially amplifies gravity to accelerate separation. These instruments continuously monitor changes in particle concentration, turbidity, sediment height, and the volume of the supernatant.

The process relies on recording the stability profile over time: the appearance of a clarification front, the particle migration rate, and the formation of a compact deposit or a flocculated sediment. The evaluation may include calculating the time required for complete sedimentation, characterizing the final volume of the supernatant phase, or identifying physicochemical mechanisms such as flocculation or coalescence. This data allows for an understanding of the impact of formulation parameters such as particle size, medium viscosity, component density, and the presence of stabilizing agents.

Technical interest and industrial applications

Measuring sedimentation dynamics provides essential information for the design, optimization, and monitoring of dispersed products. In the food industry, it allows for verification of the stability of juices, fortified beverages, plant-based milks, or products containing suspended extracts or powders. Manufacturers can then optimize homogenization, extraction, or mixing processes, and adjust texturizing or stabilizing agents.

In cosmetics, this method is essential for pigment suspensions, serum emulsions, lotions, or formulations containing mineral particles. It helps prevent deposits, compact sedimentation, or undesirable clarification throughout the product's shelf life.

In the field of the environment, sedimentation studies are applied to the monitoring of sludge, industrial water, extraction water or loaded matrices, in order to assess their behavior and to optimize solid/liquid treatment or separation processes.

For materials and polymers, the technique applies to technical suspensions, filled resins, pigment dispersions, and composite formulations. It is useful for stabilizing complex dispersions, ensuring the homogeneity of final materials, and controlling formulation processes.

Finally, in animal nutrition and plant studies, it helps to characterize botanical extracts, enzyme suspensions or nutrient solutions containing insoluble particles.

Analyzed matrices

The matrices commonly subjected to this analysis are plant juices and extracts, plant milks, fluid emulsions, pigmented cosmetic suspensions, industrial sludges, technical suspensions based on polymers or mineral particles, as well as any system likely to exhibit a phase separation phenomenon during storage.

Added value YesWeLab

Thanks to a network of rigorously selected, specialized laboratories (ISO 17025, COFRAC), YesWeLab identifies the most suitable technical partner for your product, matrix, and level of requirements. Our scientific team analyzes your needs, selects the appropriate methods, and ensures complete management of your tests via our digital platform. Since 2020, we have been supporting manufacturers, formulators, distributors, and engineering firms with their stability and formulation challenges. For any specific requirements, you can send your specifications directly via our quote request form.

Related analyses in the YesWeLab catalog

Here is a selection of additional analyses to further characterize your suspensions and formulations:

• Laser particle size analysis
• Viscosity measurement (rheology)
• Analysis of the stability profile by turbidimetry
• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)