| The
measurement cell of the ECA consists of a reciprocating
teflon piston in a probe assembly. Particles and dissolved
materials are attracted to the surfaces of the probe
by Van Der Waals forces. Counterions surround these
particles. The motion of the piston generates shear
forces, which causes the counterions to migrate. Electrodes
in the probe measure the flow of counterions, inherently
defined as an electrical current. The current is electronically
processed and displayed on the touchscreen as the
STREAMING CURRENT VALUE (SCV). For most samples in
a paper mill, the SCV will be negative, indicating
a net anionic sample. |