The water content, also called moisture content, of plastics is an important quality parameter, as it affects the properties and processability of some plastics. A high water content can lead to degradation of the plastic by hydrolysis or cause surface imperfections. Additionally, it can affect the physical properties of some plastics.
For this analysis, the oven technique is used, as volatile compounds present in plastics will interfere, if the water content is directly determined by coulometric Karl Fischer titration.
The water content determination in polycarbonate pellets, performed with the 885 Compact Oven Sample Changer and 899 Coulometer, is described in this Application Note.
