Inline process-monitoring of high concentrated dispersions using ultrasonic reflection technique

The continuous monitoring of dispersions with high solids content by means of particle size (distribution) and/or concentration – as it is recommended e.g. for quality control in industrial processes – often fails due to inadequate inline-measuring principles. A new approach takes advantage of acoustic signals that are reflected at (instead of transmitted through) the disperse medium. The results verify that the backscattered acoustic signal yields two measurement parameters which are sensitive against varying particle size and concentration. Based on these results, a process capable, cost-efficient particle analysis can be developed that allows for an inline process-monitoring especially in applications that are mainly based on offline-analysis.