Moisture Content Analysis


 

For a limited time, get 15% off of the Ohaus MB120 Moisture Analyzer!!


 

What is Moisture Content?

Moisture content is the quantity of water contained in a sample.

How do you measure Moisture Content?

Moisture content is measured by loss on drying.  This process occurs by weighing a sample, drying the sample and then reweighing the sample.  The difference in weight divides by the initial weight will give you the Moisture Content of a sample.

How is Moisture Content calculated?

%MC(Moisture Content) = ((Initial weight-Final weight)/Initial weight) x 100%                             

Is Moisture Content the same as Water Activity?

No.  These two parameters are often confused, but they are NOT the same thing.  Moisture content measures the total amount of water in a given sample, where as water activity measure the amount of water that can react in a sample. 

Why does Moisture Content Matter?

Moisture content matters for several reasons.  Perhaps the most important is regulatory requirements.  Certain States, such as California, have requirements for the %MC in a sample.  If the measured percent is above 13%, the sample must be failed.

Additionally, knowing the %MC can give you an idea of the curing process. Cannabis with high levels may not have been completely or properly cured.

%MC is often a useful parameter to know when detecting trends in extraction efficiency for producers.

What is an ideal level?

Ideally, moisture content of cured cannabis should be between 6-9%MC. Fresh cannabis typically contains about 80%MC.

What instruments do we recommend for Moisture Content Analysis of cannabis flower?

We recommend the Ohaus MB120 Moisture Analyzer for moisture content analysis.  This analyzer provides a fast determination of %MC (typically less than 5 minutes).

We can also provide you with the appropriate method to use with your new Ohaus MB120 Moisture Analyzer.