Automated system for determining particle size by moisture weight loss

An alternative method to determine the average particle size of suspensions, from the loss of moisture as function of the time is presented. Consequently, the novelty of the method consists of determining the particle size through weight loss. According to this definition, these bulk variations are collected, by controlling at the same time, parameters as the relative dampness of the chambers and the temperature of the samples under analysis. Additionally, the data are processed in the time domain and Fourier-analyzed to obtain the average particle size. Statistically, the method was calibrated through the comparison with samples previously characterized by transmission electron microscopy, by using polymer latex dispersed in water with an average particle size of 24, 44, 74 and 105 µm.