Polystyrene Microsphere Beads for Sale
Cleanroom Metrology provides NIST Traceable, accurately sized Polystyrene Microsphere Beads, the definitive choice for calibrating the size accuracy of a wide range of metrology instruments. These spherical particle size standards are suspended in a de-ionized (DI) water solution at a 1% concentration, packaged in 15 ml dropper-tipped bottles for convenience and ease of use.
Renowned for their size precision, these microspheres feature a very narrow size distribution, making them ideal for verifying the size response of laser particle counters, aerosol counters, and un-patterned and patterned wafer inspection systems, SSIS and scanning surface inspection systems. Metrology engineers depend on our standards for critical instrument size calibration to ensure compliance with industry requirements.
Every bottle is lot-numbered and ships with a NIST-Traceable Particle Size Certificate, detailing the manufacturing specifications, calibration method, and uncertainty. With proper handling and storage in a cool, dark environment, these standards maintain their stability for more than two years. Browse our extensive list of sizes below to find the exact standard for your application.
Product Part #
Particle Diameter Size
Typical Size Distribution
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Polystyrene Microsphere Beads used for?
They are primarily used as highly accurate particle size standards for the calibration and verification of optical and laser-based particle counting and sizing instruments, including laser particle counters, aerosol counters, and wafer inspection systems.
How do I ensure I get a uniform sample from the bottle?
To ensure a homogenous sample, gently invert the bottle several times or swirl it lightly before use. Avoid vigorous shaking or ultrasonic agitation, as this can cause the microspheres to aggregate or adhere to the bottle walls.
What does it mean that the beads are “suspended in de-ionized water”?
This means the particles come in a ready-to-use liquid format. The DI water solution helps prevent the particles from clumping and allows for easy dilution for specific instrument calibration routines, saving you the step of having to suspend a dry powder yourself.
Can I dilute these standards to a different concentration?
Yes. You can dilute the standards to a lower concentration using high-quality, particle-free de-ionized water. This is a common practice when calibrating instruments that require a specific particle count rate.
How are these liquid-suspended beads different from your dry microspheres?
The primary difference is the delivery format. These liquid beads are ideal for wet calibration systems and easy dilution. Dry microspheres are designed for applications requiring dry powder dispensing or aerosolization, such as filter testing or wind tunnel studies.
What is the shelf life and proper storage condition?
When stored upright in their original, tightly sealed container at room temperature away from direct sunlight, these particle size standards have a shelf life of more than two years. Do not freeze the suspension, as this can cause irreversible aggregation of the microspheres.
Why is a narrow size distribution important for calibration?
A narrow size distribution means that nearly all particles in the bottle are very close to the stated diameter. This uniformity is critical for accurate calibration, as it ensures the instrument is challenged with a consistent, known particle size, leading to more reliable and repeatable measurements.
Does each bottle come with a Certificate of Traceability?
Absolutely. Every bottle ships with a Certificate of Calibration and Traceability to NIST. This document provides the mean particle diameter, size distribution, and other physical properties, which is essential for quality control protocols and audits.
Are these microspheres sterile or suitable for in-vivo use?
No, these standards are for industrial and research metrology applications only. They are not manufactured in a sterile environment and are not intended for any medical, diagnostic, or in-vivo (in the body) use.
What is the typical concentration of the beads in the solution?
The microspheres are provided at a concentration of 1% solids by weight. This provides a sufficient particle count for most calibration procedures while allowing for further dilution if necessary.