（Abel 10）ABEL TEST APPARATUS

The ABT™ (Abel test) apparatus is used for the traditional determination of the thermal stability by the measurement of the time interval needed to evolve nitrogen oxide gasses from the heated sample. Iodide Starch Indicator Papers are used for the detection of the presence of decomposition gases. The test temperature is typically set between 60 – 82°C. The nitrate esters decompose evolving nitrogen oxide gases which are detected by means of the standardized color change of the Iodide Starch Indicator Paper. The period of time between inserting the heating block with samples and the moment of the color change of the indicator paper is the test time.   The typical sample mass is 1-3g and the measured temperature ranges between 60 – 82°C with a testing period up to 1 hour.

The ABT™ makes testing quick and easy. The moment the color change occurs on the indicator paper the test is complete.

DESCRIPTION

The ABT™ apparatus consists of a heavy, aluminum heating block made of with 10 test tube holder holes. Each tube is covered with an individual lid equipped with a small hook. The indicator paper is then hung conveniently on the hook which is placed inside the tube when the lid is secured.  

The glass test tubes (with the tested samples and indicator paper) are inserted into their holders in the heating block. The temperature of the block is administered by a control unit which is comprised of an operational controller and a limit controller. The limit controller operates an independent alarm circuit which halts the heating process if temperatures were to accidentally increase above specified safety limits. Calibrated mercury thermometers or calibrated digital thermometers may be used to correct and control the temperature of the heating block.

The ABT’s™ standard heavy, aluminum heating block can hold and measure up to 9 samples (with individual time exposures for each one).   Heating blocks with a different desired number of holes are available on request.