Granules Size Distribution Analysis
Overview
CD BioGlyco can provide a variety of time-saving and highly repeatable starch granules size distribution analysis services according to customers' scientific research needs. We have confidence to be your essential research assistant in the field of glycobiology.
Starch is composed of two glucose polymers, namely amylose and amylopectin. Amylopectin with its multiple branched chains of (1-4)-R-glucans interlinked by (1-6)-R-linkages is usually the major component of starch, with the essentially unbranched amylose making up the minor fraction. Starch molecules (called starch granules) are usually deposited in plants in the form of discrete semi-crystalline aggregates, which are the most important energy reserve in plants.
During grain development, starch granules of different sizes and shapes accumulate in the endosperm. They are large, disc-shaped A particles, and small spherical B particles. The average diameter of A-type granules is 10 to 35 μm, and the diameter of B-type granules is less than 10 μm, accounting for more than 90% of the total number of starch granules. Large A-type and small B-type starch granules have different physical, chemical and functional properties. The size of starch granules directly affects the crystallization properties, digestion properties, modification results and thermodynamic properties of starch. Analysis of starch granules size is hence very important.
Key Technologies
CD BioGlyco mainly provides the following methods to detect the particle size distribution of starch. Different methods can be used alone or combined according to the sample's characteristics.
- Digital image analysis (IA) coupled with light microscopy can be used to determine starch size distributions and record the physical parameters of a single particle.
- Laser diffraction sizing (LDS) can greatly shorten the analysis time of each sample. The instrument is usually used to quickly analyze the particle size distribution of both wet and dry dispersions.
- Focus beam reflectance measurement (FBRM) can be used as a real-time (on-line) monitoring tool for the determination of size and shape of the starch particles in a fast and efficient way.
IA to FBRM: Precision-Sized, Particle by Particle.
We provide comprehensive granule size distribution analysis, leveraging over many years of expertise to deliver precise and actionable data. Our scientific approach goes beyond simple measurements, offering a detailed understanding of how your material's unique granule profile impacts its performance. By choosing us, you are not just getting data; you are gaining a strategic partner dedicated to helping you unlock new levels of product consistency and innovation. Our service scope includes:
- Characterization of Native Starches
Analysis of granule size distribution for starches from various plant sources, enabling you to understand their inherent properties and functionality.
- Assessment of Modified Starches
Evaluation of physically, chemically, or enzymatically modified starches to determine how these processes impact their granule size and shape.
- Formulation & Process Optimization
Analysis of starch-based formulations to understand how other ingredients or processing steps (e.g., milling) influence granule integrity and size distribution.
- Comparison & Benchmarking
Services to compare your material's granule size distribution against a competitor's product or an industry standard.
Workflow
Our client-centric workflow is designed for efficiency and collaboration, ensuring a seamless experience from initial contact to final report.
- Sample Submission & Preparation
You provide us with your starch samples. Our team then meticulously prepares them, which may include isolation, staining, or dispersion, to ensure they are ready for analysis and that the results are representative and reproducible.
- Advanced Granule Analysis
We conduct the analysis using our state-of-the-art IA and LDS platforms. We can analyze samples from various botanical sources, including wheat, corn, rice, and potato, which possess different granule size populations.
- In-Depth Data Interpretation
Our specialists interpret the raw data to provide a comprehensive report that goes beyond simple graphs. We provide a detailed breakdown of the A-, B-, and C-type granule populations, explaining what the data means for your material's functional properties and performance.
Publication Data
DOI.: 10.1080/19476337.2018.1518343
Journal: CYTA-Journal of Food
Published: 2018
Results: In this study, researchers developed a Python-based curve-fitting method to quantify starch granule size distributions in cereals using Coulter counter data. For Triticeae species (wheat, barley) with bimodal distributions (A- and B-type granules), they optimized a mixed log-normal/normal (L-N) model that accurately separated overlapping peaks, enabling precise estimation of granule abundance and size parameters despite their overlap. For unimodal cereals like maize and rice, a single normal distribution provided the best fit. The method revealed species- and genotype-specific variations, validated using wheat mutants with altered B-granule content. Their open-source script standardizes granule analysis, offering new tools to link granule size to functional properties in food science and breeding.
Advantages
- We offer diverse methods (e.g., digital image analysis, laser diffraction sizing, focus beam reflectance measurement) tailored to sample characteristics.
- We deliver short experiment periods and highly repeatable, accurate results, ensuring reliable data for research.
- We possess specialized knowledge in starch profiling and plant carbohydrate analysis, backed by extensive experience.
Application
- Our service can be used to investigate the relationship between granule size and starch properties.
- Our service can be used to analyze how size distribution affects functional attributes like viscosity, gelatinization, and retrogradation.
- Our service can be used to assess the impact of starch granule size on texture, shelf life, and sensory properties of baked goods (e.g., bread, biscuits).
Frequently Asked Questions
Associated Services
Our granule size distribution analysis service precisely characterizes particulate morphology and dispersion patterns critical for material performance. Complementing this physical profiling, we offer a targeted Pharmaceutical Excipient Analysis Service including alpha, beta, and gamma cyclodextrin variants to evaluate their molecular encapsulation capabilities, structural integrity, and functional suitability for advanced applications.
CD BioGlyco provides a variety of different technology platforms for measuring starch granules size distribution, customers can choose one or more of these services according to their research needs. We have always been praised by customers for our high-quality services and accurate experimental results.
Customers can contact our employees directly and we will respond promptly. If you are interested in our services, please contact us for more detailed information.
Reference
- McNelly, R.; et al. A curve fitting method for analyzing starch granule size distributions in cereals. Cereal Chemistry. 2025, 102(3): 438-450. (Open Access)
