Experiment 3.

Title. Bulk density and tapp density.
Objective of bulk density and tapp density.
Procedure of bulk density and tapp density.

1 answer

Experiment 3: Bulk Density and Tapped Density

Title

Bulk Density and Tapped Density


Objective

The primary objectives of determining bulk density and tapped density are as follows:

  1. Bulk Density: To assess the mass of a powder material per unit volume, which includes the volume of the particles as well as the void spaces between them. This helps in understanding how the material behaves in various applications, particularly in pharmaceutical, food, and material science industries.

  2. Tapped Density: To measure the maximum packing density of a powder after being subjected to tapping or vibration. Tapped density can be used to determine how well a powder can be compacted and is important for evaluating its flow properties and potential applications in tablet formation and other compaction processes.


Procedure

Materials Needed:

  • Powder sample
  • Graduated cylinder or volumetric flask
  • Tapped density tester (or a mechanical shaker)
  • Analytical balance
  • Spoon or spatula

Part 1: Measurement of Bulk Density

  1. Weigh the Empty Container: Tare the analytical balance and record the weight of the empty graduated cylinder or volumetric flask (W1).

  2. Add the Powder Sample: Using a spoon or spatula, carefully fill the graduated cylinder with a known quantity of the powder sample (e.g., 100g). Ensure that the powder is not compacted and is poured gently to avoid settling.

  3. Measure the Volume: Once the powder is added, record the volume of the powder in the graduated cylinder (V).

  4. Calculate Bulk Density: The bulk density (DB) is calculated using the formula: \[ D_B = \frac{W2}{V} \] Where:

    • \( W2 \) is the mass of the powder sample (in grams).
    • \( V \) is the volume of the powder sample (in milliliters).
  5. Record Bulk Density: Record the calculated bulk density value.


Part 2: Measurement of Tapped Density

  1. Tapping the Powder: Place the same graduated cylinder containing the powder sample on the tapped density tester or manual shaker.

  2. Tap the Cylinder: Allow the cylinder to tap a set number of times (e.g., 200 taps) or shake it for a specific period until the powder settles. The goal is to minimize the void space between the particles.

  3. Re-measure the Volume: After tapping, record the new volume of the material in the graduated cylinder (Vt).

  4. Calculate Tapped Density: The tapped density (DT) is calculated using the formula: \[ D_T = \frac{W2}{V_t} \] Where:

    • \( W2 \) remains the mass of the powder sample (in grams).
    • \( V_t \) is the tapped volume of the powder after tapping (in milliliters).
  5. Record Tapped Density: Record the calculated tapped density value.


Conclusion

After completing the experiment, you should have measured both the bulk density and tapped density of your powder sample. Analyzing these values will provide insights into the packing properties and potentially the flow characteristics of the material, crucial for applications in formulation, processing, and material handling.