Overview
ISO 20998-2:2022 - "Measurement and characterization of particles by acoustic methods - Part 2: Linear theory" defines requirements for ultrasonic attenuation spectroscopy used to determine particle size distributions (PSD) in dilute particulate suspensions. The standard applies where the ultrasonic attenuation spectrum is a linear function of particle volume fraction, i.e., particle‑particle interactions are negligible. Typical measurable particle sizes are 10 nm to 3 mm, with solid-suspension concentrations commonly from 0.1 % to 5 % by volume (higher for emulsions). The document supports dynamic monitoring of PSD changes and complements Part 1 (concepts and procedures).
Key topics and technical requirements
- Linear attenuation regime - conditions where excess attenuation scales linearly with particle volume fraction; scope includes colloids, dilute dispersions and emulsions.
- Mechanisms of attenuation - treatment of scattering, thermal losses and viscoinertial losses, and discussion of non‑monotonic relaxation mechanisms.
- Analytical models - summary of linear models and theoretical frameworks (including references to ECAH - Epstein‑Carhart‑Allegra‑Hawley theory) and their limitations.
- PSD determination - inversion approaches for retrieving PSD from attenuation spectra:
- Optimization of a PSD function
- Regularization methods to stabilize ill‑posed inverse problems (e.g., Tikhonov)
- Limits of application - criteria based on particle size, concentration, density contrast and frequency range.
- Instrument qualification and metrology - calibration, precision (repeatability and reproducibility), accuracy testing, reference samples and acceptance criteria.
- Reporting requirements - standardized presentation of results and uncertainty considerations.
- Informative annexes - practical examples, semi‑empirical models, parameter tables and iterative fitting procedures.
Applications and users
ISO 20998-2:2022 is practical for:
- Laboratories and instrument manufacturers developing or validating ultrasonic particle‑sizing systems.
- Process engineers and quality control teams performing online or at‑line monitoring of dispersions, emulsions and slurries.
- R&D and materials characterization in industries such as pharmaceuticals, coatings, food, ceramics, mineral processing and oil & gas where PSD affects performance.
Benefits include non‑destructive measurement, capability for dynamic monitoring, and suitability for a wide size range and various concentrations (within stated limits).
Related standards
- ISO 20998-1:2006 - Concepts and procedures in ultrasonic attenuation spectroscopy (normative reference).
- ISO 14488 - Sampling and sample splitting for particulate materials (normative reference for sampling practice).
Keywords: ISO 20998-2:2022, ultrasonic attenuation spectroscopy, particle size distribution, PSD, acoustic particle characterization, ECAH theory, viscoinertial losses, instrument qualification, inversion, regularization.