NIST Introduces More Precise Formula for Particle Concentration Measurement

USA: NIST Introduces More Precise Formula for Particle Concentration Measurement

Background and Significance

A new mathematical formula has been introduced to calculate particle number concentration (PNC) with greater accuracy. The development was announced by researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) on August 20, 2025. The formula aims to improve measurements of particles suspended in liquids or gases, which is critical for drug dosing, nanoplastic monitoring, and food additive verification.

Understanding Particle Number Concentration

Particle number concentration quantifies the number of particles per unit volume, typically expressed as particles per cubic centimeter. Accurate PNC values enable scientists and engineers to assess material properties and ensure compliance with safety standards across multiple industries.

Limitations of Existing Methods

Current calculation methods assume particles are uniform in size, a simplification that can introduce bias when size distribution varies. This assumption leads to overestimates, particularly in samples where particle sizes differ markedly.

Derivation and Validation

The new equation was derived by former NIST researcher Natalia Farkas and incorporates the full size distribution of particles. Validation experiments using gold nanoparticles in water showed that previous formulas overstated PNC by roughly 6%, whereas the new approach matched directly measured values within 1%.

Real-World Applications

When applied to an anti‑caking agent used in food production, the revised formula produced estimates that diverged from older calculations by as much as 36%, highlighting its relevance for heterogeneous materials. Such precision can affect dosage calculations in pharmaceuticals and quality control in food processing.

Expert Commentary

“Choosing the right formula can make a big difference,” said NIST engineer Elijah Petersen, who participated in the testing. He noted that the improved accuracy could support advancements in nanotechnology, including food packaging, microchip fabrication, and electronic device manufacturing.

Future Implications

The findings were published in the journal Analytical Chemistry on May 16, 2025. Researchers anticipate that the formula will be adopted across disciplines that rely on precise particle measurements, fostering more reliable product development and regulatory compliance.

This report is based on information from NIST, licensed under Public Domain (U.S. Government Work). Source: Official U.S. Government release.