Pharmaceutical

Trace water detection

The measurement of water in alcohols or hydrocarbon solvents is an important measurement in many pharmaceutical processes. The use of near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for water analysis is common as NIR offers high sensitivity and measurements can be undertaken in-line providing immediate results. A Kemtrak water analyzer is a recommended replacement for inconvenient and expensive Karl Fischer titration analyzers. Benefits include no maintenance, no reagents and continuous results in real time.

Water measurements can be undertaken on hydrocarbon solvents with ppm accuracy. Proven applications include acetone, isopropyl benzene, propanol, tetrahydrofuran, and methyl-isobutyl ketone, to name just a few. Additionally, water can be measured in alcohols, such as methanol and ethanol, from trace amount to virtually 100% water.

Water has two regions of activity in the NIR region between 1000 – 2000nm. At 1400nm the O-H stretch in the water molecule is measured, while at 1900nm water has a unique peak due to a combination of O-H stretch and H-O-H bending. The water peak at 1900 is about five times as large as the water peak at 1400.

The Kemtrak DCP007-NIR LED photometer uses a long life high performance NIR LED light source with robust fiber optics to provide drift and noise-free measurement with very high precision. Automatic compensation for sample turbidity and/or fouling of the optical windows ensures trouble free operation.

Moisture in alcohol analyzer

Water detection application note

Kemtrak offers a comprehensive range of hygienic process measurement cells and immersion probes that are well suited for explosive atmospheres.

Contact a Kemtrak representative for further information.