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How to Calculate Density in Porous Films

Density is a measure of the relative mass or weight of an object at a constant volume. Measuring the density of solid objects can be accomplished in a straightforward manner; however, measuring the density of objects with an irregular shape, such as objects containing pores, cracks or crevices, becomes more challenging. For objects containing pores, envelope density can be obtained using the envelope density analyzer. The envelope density analyzer uses a powder substance that does not enter the pores, but shapes to the irregular shape of the object forming a tight envelope in order to obtain the density measurement.

Things You'll Need

Envelope density analyzer

Instructions

- 1
  Obtain an envelope density analyzer. Read the user manual for the analyzer before conducting a density experiment on a porous film item. The envelope density analyzer uses a displacement measurement technique that uses fluid medium that consolidates the porous sample, collects the displacement data and calculates the density measurements.
- 2
  Measure the size of your sample and use the correct sample chamber for the envelope analyzer corresponding to your sample size. The sample size should be no more than 25 percent of the sample chamber size. The envelope analyzers come with a variety of sample chambers to suite a range of sample sizes. Turn on the envelope analyzer and perform any calibrations as needed. The analyzer has a set of operating modes, including blank and reference calibrations, to increase the accuracy of your results.
- 3
  Place your sample in the chamber and start the analysis. During the analysis, the analyzer reports preliminary results. Take the sample out of the chamber when the analysis has completed. Print the results. Shake off any of the medium that is present on your sample. Transfer the data into other software programs, such as LIMS, if needed.

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