Metrohm is able to analyse alcoholic beverages for anions and cations (alkali and alkaline earth metals) with ion chromatography (IC) and voltammetry.
Samples of beer and their intermediates can be analysed using any of the Metrohm intelligent IC systems.
The analysis is preceded by a simple sample preparation step to facilitate the removal of carbon dioxide (on finished product) before dilution with deionised water prior to analysis.
Only a small amount of sample is required and the results are obtained in a matter of minutes.
Water is the primary ingredient within beer and its quality and type is a fundamental factor in establishing the distinctive localised beers that appear in many regions of the UK and is carefully monitored.
IC is used to monitor the anion profile and represents an important quality control step to the brewing industry.
The majority of anions found in beer are a consequence of the impurities derived from the water used during the brewing process.
Strict quality control of the impurities is required because the presence of certain anions outside defined tolerances can affect the flavour characteristics of the finished product, which in the case of an excess of sulphate gives a sharp, dry edge to hopped beers.
Samples of vodka can be analysed using the 797 VA Computrace from Metrohm.
No sample preparation step is required for vodka and the analysis requires only the addition of auxiliary solutions.
Only a small quantity of sample is required and the results are obtained in less than 10 minutes.
Certain alcoholic beverages contain large quantities of sugar, which poses problems for analysis by traditional spectroscopic techniques; in this instance a simple UV digestion may be required.
The finished product vodka can be analysed using voltammetry to ensure that any trace impurities of metals acquired during the manufacturing process do not exceed the strictly defined specification that otherwise would constitute a health risk or cause a deviation from the distinctively defined taste characteristics associated with a particular consumer brand.
Water as a raw material is crucial in the production of a good quality vodka product making up to 60 per cent of its contents and should be free from any foreign taste.
The intermediates used can be analysed with voltammetry to ensure that impurities such as manganese or iron are not present that could lead to precipitation problems during manufacture of the vodka.
