Electrophoretic light scattering (also known as laser Doppler electrophoresis and phase analysis light scattering ) is based on dynamic light scattering. The frequency shift or phase shift of an incident laser beam depends on the dispersed particles mobility. With dynamic light scattering, Brownian motion causes particle motion. With electrophoretic light scattering, oscillating electric field performs this function.
The method is used for measuring electrophoretic mobility, from which zeta potential can then be calculated. Instruments for applying the method are commercially available from several manufacturers. The last set of calculations requires information on viscosity and dielectric permittivity of the dispersion medium; appropriate electrophoresis theory is also required. Sample dilution is often necessary to eliminate multiple scattering of the incident laser beam and/or particle interactions.