A particle aggregate is a cluster made from multiple primary particles. Its overall dimensions and internal arrangement differ from the size and shape of the individual nanoparticles. A measurement reporting particle size must consequently identify whether it resolves individual particles, a connected cluster or an effective size inferred from its motion.
Aggregation changes accessible surface area, fluid transport and interaction with light. A compact cluster and an open, branched cluster containing the same number of particles can therefore behave differently. Some measurement conventions reserve aggregate for strongly bonded or fused particles and use agglomerate for more weakly associated particles; experimental reports should state their convention and how sample preparation affects the clusters.
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