Moisture content measurement (at 70°C and reduced pressure, under vacuum)

Moisture content determination under vacuum at 70°C is a reference method for the accurate determination of water content in a wide variety of matrices. Performed at moderate temperature and under reduced pressure , this technique allows the removal of free water without altering heat-sensitive compounds (vitamins, enzymes, plant extracts, proteins, etc.).

Analysis is essential for:

• Evaluate the stability and preservation of food, nutraceutical or cosmetic products.
• Ensure regulatory compliance (maximum water content, labeling, quality standards).
• Optimize industrial processes (drying, granulation, packaging).
• Control the quality of raw materials and the consistency of production batches.

Precise control of humidity levels is essential, as excessive humidity can promote microbial growth , oxidation , or chemical degradation of products.

Analytical methods used

The analysis combines two complementary approaches:

• Vacuum drying at 70°C : the sample is placed in an oven under reduced pressure, allowing the water to evaporate at a moderate temperature. This method avoids the denaturation of heat-sensitive active substances.
• Gravimetry : the water content is calculated by the difference in mass before and after drying. Gravimetric precision allows for direct and reliable quantification of the moisture content.

These methods comply with the analytical standards used in industry (NF V03-707, ISO 1442, ISO 712) and can be adapted according to the matrix and thermal sensitivity of the product.

Matrices involved

Moisture content determination under vacuum at 70°C is applicable to a wide range of industrial matrices:

• Food powders and nutritional supplements (proteins, flours, milk powders, plant extracts).
• Nutraceutical products in solid form (capsules, tablets, functional powders).
• Dried plant materials : plant extracts, herb powders, dehydrated fruits and vegetables.
• Solid cosmetic products (powders, clays, dry masks).
• Polymer or composite materials where moisture content influences rheology and stability.

Industrial applications and product quality

This analysis plays a key role in controlling the quality and lifespan of products:

• In the food industry , it helps to control the dryness of products and prevent alterations related to humidity.
• In animal nutrition , it contributes to the stability of formulations and to the prevention of mold in compound feeds.
• In cosmetics , it helps to guarantee the stability of powders and dry masks by preventing clumping.
• In phytotherapy and nutraceuticals , it ensures the preservation of botanical extracts and the consistency of the active ingredient content.

Related analyses

Humidity measurement is often complemented by other physical and thermal characterization tests:

• Dosage by freeze-drying for products that are very sensitive to heat.
• Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) to track mass loss as a function of temperature.
• Dry matter content measurement for direct correlation with moisture content.
• The accelerated stability test ,
• The study of shelf life.

YesWeLab's expertise

YesWeLab relies on a network of ISO 17025 and COFRAC accredited laboratories specializing in physicochemical and thermal analyses . Our teams support manufacturers in:

Thanks to the YesWeLab digital platform , you can centralize your analysis requests, track your samples and access your reports online, with ease.

For any specific request, contact our scientific team to obtain a protocol tailored to your products and analytical needs.