859 Titrotherm

Importance of Thermometric Titration

Thermometric titration offers a reliable alternative to potentiometric methods when direct potential measurements are impractical. By monitoring the heat changes generated by reaction enthalpies, it enables precise endpoint detection in aqueous and nonaqueous samples where traditional electrodes fail or exhibit limited applicability.

Study Aims and Overview

This manual describes the design, installation, and operation of the Metrohm 859 Titrotherm, a device dedicated to thermometric titration. It situates the instrument within the Titrando system, outlines safety instructions, and provides guidance on setup, peripheral integration, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Thermometric titration is based on detecting subtle temperature changes during titrant addition. The 859 Titrotherm controls reagent dosing continuously at a constant rate and records temperature via high-precision NTC thermistor probes (response time 0.3 s, resolution 10–5 K). It supports multiple command types (ADD, PREP, EMPTY, LQH) and remote control of stirrers, dosing units, and auxiliary devices.

Instrumentation

• 859 Titrotherm module with USB and MSB interfaces
• Thermoprobes: model 6.9011.020 (glass shaft) and 6.9011.040 (PP shaft, HF-resistant)
• Dosing drives: 700/800 Dosino, 805 Dosimat (2–50 mL cylinders)
• Magnetic stirrers: 801 Stirrer, 803 Ti Stand, 804 Ti Stand with 802 propeller
• Remote and relay interfaces: 6.2148.010 Remote Box, 731 Relay Box
• Software: tiamo™ version 2.2 or higher

Main Results and Discussion

The 859 Titrotherm integrates seamlessly into the Titrando ecosystem, offering flexible connectivity through USB and MSB buses. Its robust construction ensures safe handling of corrosive and flammable media, while automated probe recognition and software-guided configuration minimize setup time and human error. The absence of sensor calibration requirements enhances reproducibility and reduces routine maintenance.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• High sensitivity and rapid response for accurate endpoint detection
• Automated dosing and stirring reduce manual intervention
• Versatile interface supports a wide range of peripherals
• Calibration-free thermistor probes simplify operation
• Applicable in laboratories focused on QA/QC, industrial analysis, and research

Future Trends and Possibilities of Use

Advances in software algorithms and robotics are likely to expand automation capabilities. Integration with cloud-based platforms and real-time data analytics will facilitate remote monitoring and predictive maintenance. Miniaturized sensors and flow-through configurations may open applications in process control and microreactor studies.

Conclusion

The Metrohm 859 Titrotherm offers a robust, precise, and user-friendly platform for thermometric titration, addressing analytical challenges where traditional potentiometric methods fall short. Its modular design, broad compatibility, and maintenance-free sensors make it a valuable tool across research and industrial laboratories.

Reference

Thomas Smith, Practical Thermometric Titrimetry, Metrohm AG, 2006