What is Moisture Content Analysis?
Moisture content analysis is a scientific process used to quantify the proportion of water present in a material, expressed either as a percentage of its total weight (wet basis) or relative to its dry matter (dry basis).
Water content plays a crucial role in influencing a material’s physical and chemical properties, including texture, weight, strength, and reactivity, as well as its biological stability against microbial growth and spoilage.
By quantifying moisture levels, the analysis enables accurate assessment of product consistency, compliance with regulatory specifications, optimization of manufacturing and storage conditions, and prediction of shelf life.
Ultimately, the test provides essential data for ensuring reliability, safety, and performance of materials across scientific and industrial domains.
Moisture Content Analysis Procedure
Reference Basis for Measurement
Moisture content is usually expressed in two ways:
- Wet basis (wb): ratio of water mass to total mass of the sample.
- Dry basis (db): ratio of water mass to dry matter mass.
Standards (e.g., ISO 712 for cereals, AOAC 925.10 for foods) specify which basis to report depending on the product type.
Sample Preparation
The collected sample is homogenized to achieve uniformity. Where required by the relevant international standard (e.g., ISO, AOAC, ASTM), the particle size may be reduced by controlled milling or grinding. Preparation is carried out under conditions that prevent alteration of the natural moisture content.
Initial Weighing
The prepared sample is weighed on a calibrated analytical balance with a minimum resolution of 0.1 mg. The recorded value is designated as the initial mass (m₁).
Moisture Removal under Controlled Conditions
The sample is subjected to standardized conditions in order to remove its water content. The specific conditions, such as temperature, duration, and atmosphere (e.g., vacuum or desiccated environment), are defined by the corresponding international method for the material under analysis. The objective of this stage is the complete removal of water without degradation of other chemical constituents.
Cooling and Stabilization
Following moisture removal, the sample is transferred to a desiccator containing a suitable desiccant. It is allowed to cool to ambient temperature under moisture-free conditions in order to prevent reabsorption of water prior to final weighing.
Final Weighing
The conditioned and cooled sample is weighed again using the same analytical balance. The obtained value is recorded as the final mass (m₂), representing the dry matter of the sample.
Calculation of Moisture Content
The moisture content is calculated using the following formulas, in accordance with international standards:
Moisture Content (dry basis)=(m1−m2/m2)×100
Where:
- m1m_1 = initial mass of sample (g)
- m2m_2 = final mass after drying (g)
Reporting of Results
Results are expressed as a percentage and clearly stated on either a wet basis or a dry basis, depending on the requirements of the specific standard. The report must include:
The test method followed,
Environmental conditions during the analysis,
Any deviations from the prescribed standard.
This ensures compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 and guarantees reproducibility, traceability, and scientific reliability of the results.
Nikopharmed Moisture Content Analysis laboratory
Accreditation and Global Recognition
ISO/IEC 17025-certified and ILAC-accredited, our results are internationally recognized by AOAC, ISO, USP, Ph. Eur., FDA, and Codex standards.
Technical Excellence
Equipped with precision balances, validated drying systems, and automated preparation platforms, we ensure accurate and reproducible determinations across diverse matrices.
Regulatory-Ready Reporting
We provide rapid, traceable, and statistically validated results aligned with global regulatory requirements, supporting compliance and quality assurance.
Confidentiality and Data Integrity
All testing follows strict confidentiality protocols with 21 CFR Part 11-compliant data systems, ensuring secure, traceable, and reliable results.
Cost-Effective Solutions
Competitive pricing tailored for enterprises and agencies, delivering efficient compliance without compromising quality.
To request testing or a complimentary consultation contact Nikopharmad
Partner with Nikopharmed for Expert Moisture Content Analysis
By partnering with Nikopharmed, clients gain access to a globally accredited laboratory committed to scientific accuracy, regulatory compliance, and complete data confidentiality. Whether verifying product stability, ensuring consistency, or meeting international trade requirements, our Moisture Content Analysis expertise guarantees accurate, reliable, and globally recognized results—helping you achieve compliance faster and with full confidence.