1 Scope
This International Standard specifies a gravimetric loss-in-mass method for the determination
of the hygroscopic moisture content in analysis samples of copper, lead, zinc, and
nickel sulfide concentrates.
The method is applicable to copper, lead, zinc, and nickel sulfide concentrates free
from volatile organic flotation reagents, for example kerosene, and with hygroscopic
moisture contents between 0,05 % (m/m) and 2 % (m/m). The hygroscopic moisture content
is used to correct the analysis results from the equilibrated moisture level to the
dry basis.
NOTE The result of the determination of hygroscopic moisture content using this International
Standard should not be reported as part of the analysis of a concentrate sample. Whenever
the bulk moisture content of a commercial shipment of concentrate is required, ISO 10251 should be used. The determination of hygroscopic moisture content and the determination
of bulk moisture content are connected with each other. In both determinations, the
same state of dryness has to be achieved, in order to ascertain the correct metal
content of a lot.
This method is not applicable to sulfide concentrates that are susceptible to oxidation
(see 6.3, note 2). Annex A sets out a modified procedure, which can be used for sulfide concentrates that are
susceptible to oxidation.