Homogenizers and mixers are two types of laboratory equipment used for mixing and suspending samples, which differ greatly in their working principles, applications, and functions. The following are the main differences between homogenizers and mixers:

Homogenizer:

Working principle: The homogenizer uses mechanical force to break and evenly disperse particles within the sample. They typically use mechanical components that vibrate or rotate at high speeds to generate intense mechanical shear forces, dispersing the particles in the sample evenly in liquids or other media.

Application: Homogenizers are mainly used in fields such as biology, molecular biology, pharmacy, and food industry, for applications such as cell fragmentation, DNA/RNA extraction, protein homogenization, and sample mixing. They are very useful in preparing samples for subsequent analysis.

Function: The main function of a homogenizer is to evenly disperse the particles in the sample, usually without other functions such as temperature control, stirring, and vortex. They are specifically used for sample homogenization and particle crushing.

Sample container: A homogenizer usually uses a homogenizer head or probe to place the sample in the container and then evenly disperse it through mechanical force.

Mixer:

Working principle: The mixer gently stir or mix the sample through components such as a mixing tank, stirrer, or stirring rod to achieve uniform mixing without changing the characteristics of the sample. They typically use lower mechanical forces to mix components in liquids or solutions.

Application: Mixers are widely used in fields such as chemistry, biology, pharmacy, food manufacturing, and chemical engineering. They are typically used for applications such as preparing solutions, mixing reagents, synthesizing compounds, and dissolving solids.

Function: The main function of the mixer is to mix and stir samples to achieve uniform distribution in liquids or solutions. They are usually not used for particle crushing or sample homogenization.

Sample container: A mixer usually uses a mixing tank or container, where the sample and solvent are placed and then stirred through a stirrer.

In summary, there are significant differences in the working principle, application, and function between homogenizers and mixers. Homogenizers are used for particle crushing and sample homogenization, typically using high-speed mechanical forces, while mixers are used for mixing and stirring samples, typically using lower mechanical forces. The choice of equipment depends on the specific requirements of the experiment and the required processing method.