ABSTRACT
The moisture content of solids in some cases is measured by the same types of analyzers that are used on liquid or gas samples. The laboratory-type moisture analyzers—the oven and the Karl Fischer-type units—are also similar in their operations when used on liquid or solid samples. There are several other methods for moisture determination which involve discontinuous measurement of moisture in the sample. The moderation of neutrons by hydrogen atoms is used as the basis for moisture detection in this instrument. A nuclear density gauge is, therefore, included as part of the moisture measurement. Microwave solids moisture analyzers have been used to measure the water content of plastic powders, chips or pellets, soaps, grains, powdered clay, paper, hardboard, and plastic products. The electrical resistance of nonconducting solids is influenced by the moisture content of the sample. The phenomenon of nuclear magnetic resonance has also been exploited to build a rather expensive solids moisture analyzer.
