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Moisture content test

Laboratory technician placing a sample vessel in a coulometric moisture meter

Material characterisation

Chemical

Test method standards

ASTM D6980
ASTM E1131
ASTM E1868-10
ISO 15512

Why this test matters

Excess moisture can cause defects, degradation, or inconsistent performance, especially in 3D-printed structures, where residual moisture in a printed part can affect dimensional stability, mechanical properties, and shelf life. A moisture content test detects and quantifies water presence before it leads to processing issues or product failure. This matters most for companies who need to confirm a printed part or feedstock meets a moisture specification before it moves further down the production line.

How the test works

We offer two methods depending on what your sample requires. Loss-on-Drying measures the total change in weight of your sample as it dries, giving a direct indication of how much moisture was present beforehand. Karl Fischer titration is a chemical method that measures water content specifically: a reagent is added that reacts with the water in the sample, converting it into a non-conductive compound, which lets us measure water content accurately even when volatile impurities would otherwise distort a heating-based measurement.

What you learn from this test

You receive a quantitative moisture content value, typically expressed as a percentage or mass fraction. This tells you whether a printed part or material meets its moisture specification, helps you identify improper storage or handling, and supports decisions on drying processes and storage conditions before further processing. Because the method is chosen to match your sample, you get an accurate result whether or not volatile compounds are present.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our published tests cover our most requested methods, but they don't represent everything we can do. Get in touch and describe your challenge, we'll tell you whether it fits an existing method or requires a custom one.

Pricing depends on the test method, sample preparation needs and turnaround. Contact us for a quote tailored to your request.

Request this test

Send us your request with as much detail as you can share: material, component, quantity of samples,the standard you need to work to… We’ll review it and come back with scope, lead time and price. Drawings, specifications or earlier test reports help us assess feasibility faster.

Our tests experts

Guido Heunen

Senior Engineer Additive Manufacturing

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