DLS Microrheology
Particle sizing is the standard application of Dynamic Light Scattering. But it can also be employed to investigate the rheological properties such as storage and loss modulus of soft matter by means of microrheology.
In analogy to DWS Microrheology, the mean square displacement of diffusing tracer particles is extracted using Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). The spatial resolution is equivalent to microscopy-based microrheology that uses particle tracking or optical tweezers. As a consequence, DLS microrheology can be used for samples with low viscosity where tracer particles can diffuse over significant distances.
The main advantage compared to microscopy-based microrheology is that the measurements and data treatment are straightforward and fast. Moreover, if coupled with the innovative approach of the 3D Modulation technique, it becomes possible not only to measure the smallest volumes (< 5 μL), but also very turbid samples without dilution