ACTIVITY # 4: MOISTURE CONTENT TEST

Determination of moisture content is very essential for as delivered raw materials. This

gives the initial amount of mechanical or workable water in the material. Two methods in

moisture determination are being introduced: the gravimetric method and the use of an infra-

red meter. Three trials are required for each type of method to be used.

A. Gravimetric Determination of Free Moisture in Ceramic Clays

Procedure Abstract:

1. Weigh 50 g sample and spread in a weighed shallow metal or porcelain container.

2. Dry for 1 hour in the oven at 110oC and get the weight of the dried sample as quickly as
possible.
3. Calculate the % Free Moisture as follows:

% = 100

where Wa is the as received weight of the sample, and Wb is the weight of the sample
after drying.

B. Determination of Free Moisture in Ceramic Clays Using Infrared Meter

Procedure Abstract:

1. Weigh 50 g sample and dry in the IR meter. Determine the % moisture content directly
from the meter.
2. Compare the result with that of the gravimetric method. Use statistical tools.
Fill out the items in paragraph form.

Objectives of the Experiment:

Significance of the Study:

Materials and Methods:

A. Materials

B. Methodology (Draw a schematic diagram of the process flow chart )

Experimental Results and Discussion

Table 1. Data Gathered for the Determination of Moisture Content

Gravimetric Wt. of Sample Wt. of Dried % Free Std. Deviation

Sample Moisture
Trial 1
Trial 2
Trial 3
Infra-red
Trial 1
Trial 2
Trial 3

(Discuss the results and differentiate the two methods used in terms of accuracy, economics, and time
consumption.)

Conclusion:

Recommendations: