Weighing paper

weighing paper in lab

Weighing paper is often used when weighing a solid, powdery substances on an analytical balance. By preventing the substance from being gunked up, it increases the precision of the measurement.

Production

weighing paper on balance

The weighing paper is usually made through the process called calendering. First, a chemically manufactured paper pulp fiber is broken down and squeezed into the mold where it will dry into the sheet. Then, this sheet will be rolled down by hot roller. As a result, the pulp fiber will be flat and in the same direction. This process is called calendaring. To make the paper very smooth and moist-resistant, it goes through the process repetitively, called super-calendering.

Uses

Weighing paper can be folded into different shape depending on its uses.

1. Origami pouch: Origami pouch is a pocket-like shaped weighing paper that can be usually used for handling powdery, slippery samples.
2. Weighing boat: Weighing boat is a box-like folded weighing paper that can be usually used for handling solid, gunky samples.

origami pouch (front)

Types

1. Low-nitrogen weighing paper: Low-nitrogen weighing paper is the most common type of weighing paper that is used for analytical balances in the labs. The smooth texture prevents gunking up and absorption of samples on the paper.
2. Sulfur-free weighing paper : Sulfur-free weighing paper is usually used for weighing food materials. It is made up bleached glassine pulp and paper. As a result, it prevents the reaction of sample with other organic solvents such as alcohol, or acetone.

Sizes

folded weighing boat

The weighing paper is provided in different sizes : 6in by 6in, 4in by 4in, and 3in by 3in.

See also

• Glassine

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