Karl Fischer Titration

Karl Fischer titration is a highly accurate and reliable method for determining the water content in a wide range of samples.

Karl Fischer titration, named after the scientist who first introduced it in 1935, is best known as a specific analytical method used for quantifying water content in various substances, whether they are liquid, solid, or gaseous, ranging from research laboratories to quality control in industries. It can measure water content ranging from a very low ppm (parts per million) level up to 100% concentration. Therefore, this unique titration technique has not only revolutionized analytical chemistry, but it also continues to provide unappreciated benefits in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and drink, oil and gas, and much more.

How Does It Work?

The Karl Fischer titration works on a chemical reaction that was recorded by Karl Fischer. The reaction involves iodine reacting with water, where sulfur dioxide and an alcohol (methanol or ethanol) act as a facilitator. In the titration process, a known excess amount of iodine is added to the sample. The water present in the sample then reacts with the iodine. When all the water is used up, the excess iodine is then measured. The amount of water is directly proportional to the amount of iodine consumed; thus, a well-accurate water content can be determined.

Types of Karl Fischer Titration

There are two types of KFT: Volumetric Karl Fischer titration and Coulometric Karl Fischer titration.

Volumetric Karl Fischer Titration: This is the most common and traditional method of Karl Fischer titration, where the water content in a sample is determined by titrating the sample with a Karl Fischer reagent until the endpoint is reached. The Volumetric Karl Fischer titration is used when the moisture concentration of the sample is relatively high (above 1%).
Coulometric Karl Fischer Titration: In this method, the amount of water in a sample is determined by measuring the amount of electricity required to fully react with the water present in the sample. This method is more accurate and precise than volumetric titration. Coulometric Karl Fischer titration makes an appropriate choice for samples with lower water content (below 1%).

What Samples Can be Detected by the Karl Fischer Titration

Karl Fischer titration can detect water in a wide range of samples, including:

Pharmaceuticals
Plastics
Paints and coatings
Water and wastewater samples

Food and beverages
Chemicals
Environmental samples
...

Petrochemicals
Cosmetics
Biofuels

Application of Karl Fischer Titration in Deformualtion

The Karl Fischer titration technique plays a pivotal role in the process of deformulation, or reverse engineering of a product's formula. During deformulation, accurately determining a product's moisture content is critical. This is where KFT steps in, offering preciseness and reliability. The acquired moisture content data assists in reproducing the formula accurately and improving its stability and consistency. Moreover, by analyzing the water content of a product, deformulators can make inferences about the presence of certain ingredients or components, as different substances may contribute to the overall moisture content. For example, in the pharmaceutical industry, deformulators may use Karl Fischer titration to analyze the water content of a competitor's tablet formulation. By comparing the moisture levels with known data about excipients commonly used in tablets, deformulators can infer the presence of certain fillers or binders in the formulation.

How We Can Help You?

With years of experience and expertise in this area, Alfa Chemistry is able to accurately analyze and identify the moisture determination of complex mixtures. Our in-depth understanding of Karl Fischer titration techniques allows me to provide detailed and precise results, ensuring that my clients receive the most comprehensive analysis possible. More importantly, we use our extensive experience in Karl Fischer titration to provide professional deformulation services for various products such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, plastics, fine chemicals, cosmetics, paints and coatings, etc. Contact me today to learn more about how I can help you with your deformulation analysis needs.

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