How is an ABC titration performed, and what significance does it hold in the pulp and paper industry?

TAPPI Man

Dear TAPPI Man,

This is an excellent question. Many people don’t realize how these types of tests can help in the pulp and paper industry. The Great Wimble is here to make these things more clear.

For starters, the ABC titration is more commonly known as AB titration (Acid-Base titration). The procedure can be quite confusing for those who are unfamiliar with titration. You first must get the sample that you are testing for acidity and it must be diluted. Add a few drops of phenolphthalein indicator. Then, most commonly, you place Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) into a buret. You then begin titrating the NaOH into the diluted sample. If the sample is acidic, there will be no discoloration in the sample. NaOH is added into the sample until there is a permanent pink color to the sample. This represents that the sample is now neutral (or close to).

How is this test significant in the pulp and paper industry? Well, let’s look at it this way. Let’s say you buy a package of manila folders from the store. Now, let’s say that you store your VERY important paperwork in these folders. If the folders are too acidic or too basic, then the folders will cause the contents to deteriorate at a much faster pace than if it were neutral. In other words, instead of the paper lasting for a hundred years or more, it only ends up lasting five years. Let’s just hope that your important papers aren’t the only copy, otherwise you’d be out of luck in five years.

Hope I was able to help with your question. Remember to make sure your folders aren’t too acidic. Bad things may result. Hope to hear from you again.

Wimble