School of Environment

Sedimentology and Particle Analysis

The Sedimentology and Particle Analysis facilities provide space and equipment for non-chemical handling, preparation, and analysis of sediments and soils mainly in support of our research programs studying coastal/fluvial processes and geomorphology, marine sedimentology, and volcanic geology.

» Analytical and Preparation Facilities
» Key contacts

Analytical and Preparation Facilities

$Malvern Mastersizer 2000 Laser Diffraction Particle Analyser with Hydro G Dispersion Unit$

Malvern Mastersizer 2000 Laser Diffraction Particle Analyser with Hydro G Dispersion Unit

Measures particle size between 0.02 and 2000 micron. Ideal for studying sediments from clay to sand size. Only small sample volumes usually required (a few grams) which can be introduced wet or dry into the Hydro G wet dispersion unit. Some preparation may be necessary depending on the application.

Can be operated independently with a little training.

LINK - Malvern Mastersizer 2000 site (Malvern Instruments)

Rapid Settling Analyser (RSA)

A 1.75m settling tube which measures particle settling over time which can be calculated to a settling velocity distribution and a size distribution using Gibbs equation. An MS Excel based programme (SedRep) has been developed in-house to provide fully calculated, tabulated and graphical output of results. Best used for sand sized fractions from 63 to 2000 micron but has been used for fine gravel size ranges. Sample sizes of approximately 2 tablespoons (wet or dry) are required - no preweighing necessary.

Sieve Analysis

We have many test sieves available, mostly in the 63 micron (4 phi) to 16mm (-4 phi) size fractions, two dry sieve shakers, one wet sieve shaker, as well as all the associated facilities needed for washing, drying, and weighing.