Fraunhofer Institute for Microengineering and Microsystems IMM
Fraunhofer Institute for Microengineering and Microsystems IMM

flowDLS transforms nanoparticle production from reactive quality control to proactive, data-driven process control.

© Fraunhofer IMM

flowDLS - Real-time particle size measurement

flowDLS is an inline technology for real-time particle size measurement in continuous production processes, developed by Fraunhofer IMM.

 

The solution is based on dynamic light scattering (DLS) and was specifically designed for use in material flow—without sampling and without interrupting the process.

Strategic added value:

  • Real-time process control
    flowDLS provides continuous measurement data directly from the running process. This allows deviations to be detected immediately and process parameters to be adjusted on the spot.
  • Accelerated Development & Scale-up
    Immediate feedback significantly shortens development cycles. The transition from laboratory to production scale is simplified and validated using data.
  • Inline quality assurance (PAT-ready)
    flowDLS supports modern Quality-by-Design and Process Analytical Technology strategies. Continuous monitoring enhances reproducibility, product safety, and regulatory transparency.
  • Economic efficiency
    Fewer offline analyses, lower scrap rates, and optimized process control result in measurable cost savings and higher plant productivity.

Target markets & applications

  • Pharmaceutical Nanoparticles and Drug Delivery Systems
  • Lipid Nanoparticles and Functional Dispersions
  • Chemical and Materials Science Synthesis Processes
  • Continuous Microreactor Technologies

 

flowDLS addresses the growing need for data-driven process control in high-value industries. The technology enables the transition from batch-based quality inspection to true inline process intelligence.



Frequently asked questions and answers:

Question: For lipid nanoparticles, does one have to dilute after the formulation?

Answer: Yes, dilution may be necessary depending on your setup. The required concentration largely depends on the flow cell size: smaller flow cells generate less multiple scattering and can therefore handle higher concentrations. However, the exact answer also depends on particle size and initial lipid content.

Question: What is the dead volume of the system?

Answer: The dead volume depends on the flow cell size, which can be customized for your inline setup. We offer a wide range of flow cells, ranging from a few tens of micro-liters up to several milliliters.

Question: What is the flow rate range you can offer?

Answer: flowDLS is not limited by flow rate itself but rather by particle speed, which depends on the chosen flow cell size. As a general rule of thumb, flowDLS can likely measure at any particle speed velocity up to approximately 25 cm/s.

Question: What is the data output and measurement speed?

Answer: The data output includes hydrodynamic diameter, PDI, temperature, and particle speed, with each measurement taking less than a second. The output interface can also be customized to suit your specific needs.