ASTM D 890 : 2012

1.1.1The Karl Fischer Titration method is based on the reaction between water and a complex reagent² consisting of iodine, sulfur dioxide, pyridine, and methanol, whereby the iodine is converted to a colorless compound. The appearance of a persistent iodine color in the reaction mixture indicates the complete removal of free water by reaction with the reagent, and the endpoint may be measured colorimetrically. Automatic titrators find this endpoint by the restoration of a current strength when the resistance provided by the presence of water is eliminated. Amperometric automatic titrators find this endpoint by detecting the current flow that occurs once water is eliminated.

1.1.2The coulometric titration method determines water content by electronic integration of a current sufficient to generate the precise amount of iodine from the required reagent to react with the water in the sample.

1.1.3The azeotropic method utilizes the relatively low boiling point of water, as compared with other sample constituents, in a toluene or xylene matrix so that water is collected in a trap and measured.