Gravimetric Method

What are the official methods of moisture content determination?

The gravimetric method is the official method of moisture content determination and is widely accepted as the most accurate method because it determines the percentage of moisture content by weight.

How gravimetric method works

The gravimetric method involves the following steps:

  • A sample of the material whose moisture content is to be determined is weighed and recorded as the original weight (Wo).
  • The sample is then heated in an oven at a specific temperature until it reaches a constant weight (Wd).
  • The difference between the original weight (Wo) and the dry weight (Wd) is the weight of the moisture content (Wm).
  • The moisture content is then calculated using the following formula:
    • Moisture content (%) = (Wm / Wo) * 100

Advantages of Gravimetric Method

The gravimetric method offers several advantages, including:

  • It is a well-established and reliable method.
  • It is relatively easy to perform.
  • It can be used to determine the moisture content of a wide variety of materials.

Applications of Gravimetric Method

The gravimetric method is used in various industries, including:

  • Agriculture
  • Food
  • Pharmaceutical
  • Chemical

Accuracy and Reliability

The accuracy and reliability of the gravimetric method depend on the following factors:

  • The accuracy of the weighing scale used.
  • The temperature at which the sample is dried.
  • The duration of drying.

By carefully controlling these factors, it is possible to obtain accurate and reliable results using the gravimetric method.