Let’s Know Karl Fischer Titration In Detail

Karl Fischer titration is a volumetric or coulometric titration method for estimating the amount of water in a given analyte. Karl Fischer, a German scientist, devised this method for quantitative chemical analysis in 1935; today, similar titrations can be performed using specialist titrators (known as Karl Fischer titrators) by lab chemical suppliers.

The Principle Of Karl Fischer Titration

Karl Fischer reagent titration is based on the oxidation reaction between iodine and sulphur dioxide. Water combines with iodine and sulphur dioxide to form sulphur trioxide and hydrogen iodide, and the process is complete when all of the water has been consumed.

The following is the chemical equation for the reaction of sulphur dioxide, iodine, and water (as used in Karl Fischer titration):

I2 + SO2 + H2O → 2HI + SO3

The Process Of Karl Fischer Titration

There are two ways to conduct the Karl Fischer titration experiment. These are their names:

• Volumetric determination- This approach can determine water content to 1% accuracy. After the sample has been dissolved in KF methanol, iodine is added to KF Reagent. The endpoint is detected potentiometrically.
• Coulometric determination — The endpoint is sensed electrochemically in this experiment. Iodine for the KF reaction is produced via anodic oxidation of iodide from solution.

The International Standards Organization (ISO) has recognised it as an American Standard Testing Method (ASTM) in the United States. It is also included in the German DIN and BS standards. Japanese standards, such as the Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS) and the Japanese Agricultural Standards (JAS), have also adopted the method (JAS).

Applications Of Karl Fischer Titration

• It is utilised in multiple products, including polymers, oils, and gases.
• It’s found in pharmaceutical items.
• It’s found in cosmetic items.

Advantages Of Karl Fischer Titration

• It can be used to indicate the concentration of water in gases, liquids, and solids.
• The coulometric titrator helps identify free, dissolved, and emulsified water.
• It is a quick and accurate method that requires little sample preparation.

Finar, one of India’s leading laboratory chemical manufacturers in India, has a robust distribution network and sales team that allows us to service customers in over 50 countries globally. Their R&D department has created in-house technology that is suited for both manual and automatic equipment, ensuring a consistent factor.