Metrohm 859 Titrotherm with tiamo software for thermometric titrations

Metrohm provides the 859 Titrotherm with tiamo software for thermometric titrations — a device that can easily be automated by integrating an autosampler. The product is suitable for quantifying sodium in foodstuffs, serving as an alternative to determining the counterion chloride using argentometric titration.

Thermometric titration shares with potentiometric titration the use of a sensor to detect the endpoint of the titration reaction. In the case of thermometric titration, however, the sensor is a fast-responding thermometer. Instead of measuring the electrochemical potential in the solution, the robust, sensitive thermometer tracks the reaction enthalpy, ie, the temperature change in the solution.

The endpoint of the titration is marked precisely by the moment, when the reaction stops and no significant temperature change is registered any longer in the solution. Because it relies merely on a change of solution temperature to find the endpoint, there is no need to calibrate the sensor. Sensor maintenance is minimal and it can be stored dry between titrations.

As for sample preparation, users only need to ensure that the matrix does not prevent the analyte from reacting with the titrant and that the sample is sufficiently mobile. Results are available in less than 2 min.