Developing a New Test Method for Determining Free Moisture in Hydrated Lime by Thermogravimetric Analysis (Moisture Balance)

摘要

Experimental studies were conducted in order to establish a technique for determining the free moisture content of hydrated lime using a thermogravimetric balance (moisture meter) method. The first step was to develop a calibration curve for different moisture levels using sodium tartrate dihydrate, first with dried limestone and then with calibrated weights. Sodium tartrate dihydrate has a moisture content of 15.65+-0.05 wt. % at 120°C. Testing was completed at 120°C, 150°C, and 180°C in order to determine whether there was a significant difference in results at the different temperatures. There was a 0.2 % discrepancy in the value of the free moisture between the lowest and the highest temperature, providing a good base from which to recommend further development of the test method.