Using microwave technology for moisture and solids analysis
While moisture and solids analysis is a routine measurement in most industrial powder and solid processes, the use of microwave technology remains a mystery to many process engineers and lab technicians. However, microwave heating and drying is not only easy to use, it is also applicable to many more types of samples than most people realize. This article discusses the principles of microwave technology and compares moisture and solids analysis to several conventional methods.
Determining the amount of water or volatile liquid in a powder or bulk solid is a routine analysis run thousands of times a day at industrial facilities. Raw material is analyzed to ensure that its moisture or solids content is within purchase specifications; process material is analyzed to control the operation of dryers, filters, or reactors; and finished product is analyzed to ensure compliance with shipping specifications.