Quality control of Ammonium Nitrate
Applications | 2020 | MetrohmInstrumentation
Moisture content is a critical quality parameter in specialty chemicals such as ammonium nitrate. Accurate moisture analysis ensures product stability, performance, and safety in industrial and laboratory settings.
This study outlines the development and validation of a rapid, non-destructive moisture determination method using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) as an alternative to conventional Karl Fischer titration.
Samples of ammonium nitrate were measured without preparation using a DS2500 Solid Analyzer in reflection mode over 400 to 2500 nm. A rotating large sample cup minimized particle size effects and ensured reproducible spectra. Prediction models were generated and evaluated with Vision Air Complete software.
The NIR calibration model for moisture content achieved a coefficient of determination R2 of 0.840, standard error of calibration of 0.011 mg/L, and cross-validation error of 0.012 mg/L. Correlation diagrams demonstrated strong agreement between NIR predictions and volumetric Karl Fischer reference values. Analysis time was reduced from 5 minutes to 1 minute per sample without chemical reagents.
Advances in portable NIR devices and integration with process analytical technology enable real-time in-line monitoring. Machine learning techniques promise improved prediction accuracy. Expansion of this approach to other solid and granular products can further streamline quality control workflows.
Near-infrared spectroscopy with the DS2500 system provides a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective alternative to Karl Fischer titration for moisture analysis in ammonium nitrate, supporting high-throughput and sustainable quality control.
NIR Spectroscopy
IndustriesEnergy & Chemicals
ManufacturerMetrohm
Summary
Importance of the Topic
Moisture content is a critical quality parameter in specialty chemicals such as ammonium nitrate. Accurate moisture analysis ensures product stability, performance, and safety in industrial and laboratory settings.
Objectives and Study Overview
This study outlines the development and validation of a rapid, non-destructive moisture determination method using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) as an alternative to conventional Karl Fischer titration.
Methodology
Samples of ammonium nitrate were measured without preparation using a DS2500 Solid Analyzer in reflection mode over 400 to 2500 nm. A rotating large sample cup minimized particle size effects and ensured reproducible spectra. Prediction models were generated and evaluated with Vision Air Complete software.
Used Instrumentation
- DS2500 Solid Analyzer covering 400 to 2500 nm in reflection mode
- Rotating DS2500 Large Sample Cup for automated measurements at multiple positions
- Vision Air Complete software for data acquisition and chemometric model development
Main Results and Discussion
The NIR calibration model for moisture content achieved a coefficient of determination R2 of 0.840, standard error of calibration of 0.011 mg/L, and cross-validation error of 0.012 mg/L. Correlation diagrams demonstrated strong agreement between NIR predictions and volumetric Karl Fischer reference values. Analysis time was reduced from 5 minutes to 1 minute per sample without chemical reagents.
Benefits and Practical Applications
- Rapid and non-destructive moisture determination
- No sample preparation or chemical waste
- Enhanced laboratory throughput
- Significant reduction in operating costs
Future Trends and Applications
Advances in portable NIR devices and integration with process analytical technology enable real-time in-line monitoring. Machine learning techniques promise improved prediction accuracy. Expansion of this approach to other solid and granular products can further streamline quality control workflows.
Conclusion
Near-infrared spectroscopy with the DS2500 system provides a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective alternative to Karl Fischer titration for moisture analysis in ammonium nitrate, supporting high-throughput and sustainable quality control.
References
- Metrohm AG. AN-NIR-064 Application Note: Rapid and non-destructive moisture determination in ammonium nitrate
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