Applications of Dynamic Light Scattering Technology

Feb 9, 2026

Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) is widely used for particle size analysis and protein characterization, but in addition to these core applications it also has some less common, innovative applications. Popular and emerging applications of dynamic light scattering include:

  1. Protein Aggregation Monitoring in Pharmaceutical Development
    Beyond standard size measurement, DLS can detect early stages of protein aggregation, helping to improve formulation stability and prevent immunogenic responses. Because aggregates scatter more light, DLS is exquisitely suited to detecting protein aggregation in protein solutions during pre-formulation and formulation development.
  2. Detection of Microplastics in Environmental Samples
    DLS can identify and characterize microplastic particles suspended in water, aiding environmental monitoring efforts.
  3. Studying Soft Matter Rheology and Viscoelastic Properties
    By analyzing fluctuations over time, DLS can provide insights into the viscoelastic behavior of complex fluids like gels, biofilms, and mucus. Some of these systems now offer a microrheology feature that uses tracer particles to determine the viscosity of solutions.
  4. Assessment of Viral Particles and Pathogen Detection
    DLS can be used to detect and size viruses and bacteria in clinical samples, contributing to rapid diagnostics and biosecurity.
  5. Evaluation of Emulsion Stability and Coalescence in Food Science
    Monitoring droplet size changes over time to assess the stability of emulsions like creams, fat droplets, flavorings and additives  under various conditions.
  6. Nanoparticle-Protein Interactions
    Investigating how nanoparticles interact with biological macromolecules, which is important in nanomedicine, drug delivery and nanotoxicity studies.
  7. Characterizing Extracellular Vesicles (EVs)
    Differentiating exosomes and microvesicles in biological fluids for biomarker discovery and disease diagnostics.
  8. Studying Crystallization and Nucleation Processes
    Real-time monitoring of nucleation events in supersaturated solutions, useful in materials science and pharmaceutical development.

Brookhaven Instruments, with a legacy of pioneering in light scattering and zeta potential analysis, is committed to advancing its technology to provide reliable and innovative solutions that support modern scientific breakthroughs in nanotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and materials science. Our instruments have always been built in the USA and we have dedicated support resources to help you along the way. We are real people helping real people in real-time.TM

Contact us today to learn more about our light scattering solutions for particle size and zeta potential analysis.