Electrical Conductivity Method

The electrical conductivity method is frequently employed to determine the moisture content of materials. It utilizes the principle that materials with higher moisture content possess higher electrical conductivity. This method is particularly well-suited for materials that are non-conductive when dry.

Procedure

A sample of the material is collected and weighed.
The sample is placed between two electrodes.
An electrical current is passed through the sample.
The electrical resistance of the sample is measured.
The moisture content of the sample is calculated using a calibration curve.

Advantages

High accuracy and precision
Non-destructive
Rapid and automated
Applicable to a wide range of materials

Disadvantages

Requires calibration for each specific material
Sensitive to temperature and other factors
Not suitable for materials that are highly conductive when dry

Applications

The electrical conductivity method is commonly used for moisture content determination in various applications, including:

Soil moisture monitoring
Paper and pulp industry
Food processing
Pharmaceutical industry
Environmental monitoring