Automatic titrometric method in flow-batch controlled by an arduino open source hardware

Abstract

This work describes the development of an automatic titrometric method in flow-batch with potentiometric detection using alternative and easily accessible materials. Arduino board and its modules, solenoid valves to control the flow rate, peristaltic pump to propel and suction fluids and tubes of inert material to connect the different parts of the Flow-Batch Analyser (FBA) were used. The use of solenoid valves controlled by microcontrollers proved to be efficient for controlling the flow in FBA systems, the correlations of their flow rates as a function of time showed good linearity with correlation coefficients (r) 0.9994 and 0.9997 for the valve 1 and valve 2, respectively, allowing correct addition of pre-established volumes. Accuracy was verified by comparing the results of the proposed method with the classic potentiometric titration with statistically evaluated by Student's t-test in NaOH with HCl and vinegar with NaOH titrations. Results confirmed the efficiency to use Arduino board and its modules and automatic titrometric method in flow-batch developed in this work allow the implementation of practical disciplines, such as potentiometric titration and flow analysis system in undergraduate courses, making these instruments more accessible, especially for the chemistry students.