Granulometrica

Granulometrica is a term used to describe the measurement and characterization of particle size distribution within a bulk material, commonly referred to as granulometry or granulometric analysis. It quantifies how particle sizes are distributed by fraction, providing parameters such as median diameter (D50), percentiles (D10, D90), mean size, and distribution span. These metrics inform material behavior in processes like flow, packing, reactivity, filtration, and mechanical strength.

Common methods for granulometrica include mechanical sieve analysis for coarse powders and aggregates, laser diffraction and dynamic light scattering for fine powders and colloids, sedimentation and hydrometer techniques for soils and suspensions, image analysis and microscopy for shape-resolved measurements, and Coulter counter or particle counters for electrical sizing. Each technique has assumptions and limitations—such as sensitivity to particle shape, agglomeration, refractive index, or the need to assume spherical equivalence.

Granulometric data are widely applied in geology, soil science, civil engineering (concrete and asphalt design), pharmaceuticals (powder processing and bioavailability), food production, ceramics, and powder metallurgy. Standardized procedures and reporting formats are provided by organizations such as ISO and ASTM to ensure consistency and comparability. Accurate granulometrica requires representative sampling, appropriate method selection, and careful interpretation of results in the context of the material's intended use.