New approach to the origin of lognormal size distributions of nanoparticles

Abstract

A new model for particle growth can predict the well known lognormal particle size distribution from first principles in a physically realistic way. The model is completely different from the usually applied coagulation models; it is based on a residence time approach, where the time available for the particles to grow determines the size distribution. The model is generally relevant in fields such as nanoparticle physics, aerosol science or environmental science, whenever particle growth occurs during transport through a growth zone due to diffusion and drift. Model predictions show excellent agreement with published experimental data obtained with the inert-gas evaporation technique.