Simple and precise surface tension measurement

Dyne Testing, an Intertronics brand, offers the Sigma 702 Force Tensiometer from Biolin Scientific, a standalone instrument for precise surface tension and interfacial tension measurement. The device provides a precision balance, a motorised sample stage and an intuitive user interface, meaning minimal training is needed for operation. The instruments are used across multiple industries, including chemicals, coatings, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, energy, and the environmental sector.

A force tensiometer measures surface tension by determining the force needed to detach a probe or ring from the liquid’s surface, that force being directly related to the liquid’s surface tension. The device has a motorised sample stage and an ultra-sensitive balance. The integral control screen lets you set parameters, and press start to perform the measurement. The results are shown on the screen immediately after a measurement is completed.

“The Sigma 702 Force Tensiometer does a lot of the work for you and is easy to get to grips with. Once you’ve placed your beaker of sample liquid on the stage, you can push a few buttons and the measurement is complete,” said Alison Fox, Dyne sales manager at Intertronics. “As well as surface tension and interfacial tension measurement, it can measure for critical micelle concentration (CMC) and density.”

Accuracy and precision come from the simple automated process, the positioning resolution of the motorised sample stage (to 0.26μm), and the ultra-sensitive electromagnetic balance able to measure forces with a resolution of 0.01mg. The device has a measuring range of 1-1000mN/m with a displayed resolution of 0.01mN/m.

The device is a self-contained, standalone instrument which does not need a separate computer. It comes with data collection software and, if required, can be connected to an external computer for further data storage and simple reporting. Alternatively, an optional printer can be attached for instant hard copy reports.

The instrument arrives with the du Noüy ring and Wilhelmy plate measurement capabilities. Surface tension and interfacial tension results with the du Noüy ring are available with Huh-Mason and Zuidema-Waters correction. In Wilhelmy plate mode, dry taring and wet taring can be selected. Parameters for stabilisation time and surface detection limits are also adjustable according to the user’s requirements and preferences.

The Sigma 702 force tensiometer is a robust, versatile instrument with precision and sensitivity. Measurements are automated and repeatable, reducing human error that comes from a manual tensiometer. It enables batch testing with minimal operator input, which is useful for quality control applications. It is easy to use with a simple interface, and the results are shown on the screen immediately after the measurement is completed.