How to Transfer Manual Titration to Autotitration
Mar 25, 2020
Article
Maybe you’ve read our earlier blog post on the main error sources in manual titration and are now wondering what you have to do in order to convert your manual titration to autotitration. In this blog entry, I want to give you a step by step guideline on how to proceed and what you have to consider.
Let’s jump right in with the following topics (click to go directly to each topic):
Choice of sensor
The first and most crucial step in transferring a manual titration to autotitration is the choice of the sensor for the indication of the equivalence point.
One of the simplest choices is to use a photometric sensor, effectively replacing the human eye with a sensor, especially when norms or standards stipulate the use of color indicators. It is often simpler to use a potentiometric electrode for indication purposes, because indicator solution is not needed and you can even combine multiple titrations into one to save time.
The electrode choice depends on the type of reaction, the sample, and the titrant used. Acid-base titrations require a different electrode than redox or precipitation titrations. Additionally, the sample matrix can have a significant influence on the electrode. The more complex the matrix is, the more crucial the choice. For example, you must use a different pH electrode for non-aqueous titrations than for aqueous titrations.
To help you select the best electrode for your titrations, we’ve prepared a free flyer, which you can download below. If you prefer, our Electrode Finder is even easier to use. Select the reaction type and application area of your titration and we will present you with the best solution.