Analysis Package P3 : Ash Content

The following steps are involved in determining the Ash content:

1. The moisture content of the sample is determined by taking a subsample in a crucible of known weight and drying in an oven overnight at 105 degrees celcius.

2. After the dried sample is weighed it is then placed in a Nabertherm L-240H1SN muffle furnace and the following program used:

(i)     Ramp from room temperature to 105C.
(ii)    Hold at 105C for 12 minutes.
(iii)   Ramp to 250C at 10C/minute.
(iv)   Hold at 250C for 30 minutes.
(v)    Ramp to 575C at 20C/ minute.
(vi)   Hold at 575C for 180 minutes.
(vii)  Allow temperature to drop to 105C.
(viii) Hold at 105C until the samples are removed.

3. The ash samples are then weighed and the ash content calculated.