I have been performing experiments in which I weigh polystyrene or polyurethane in an analytical balance, but anytime I place my sample, the weight keeps going down and does not stop. I read that probably is a problem with the static of the sample. Has anyone encountered this problem and knows how to deal with it?
Thank you
If you have a sample with volatile solvent then you observe the weight gradually decreasing. Make sure the sample is properly dried. The weight reduction is also observed in the case of air; light sensitive compounds which undergo degradation during weighing. Similarly if you weigh a hygroscopic substance, you will observe a weight gain. In that case, the sample has to be kept in an air tight container.
If you are having a problem with static (which sounds likely given the materials you mention) I highly recommend using an anti-static gun, they are commonly used in analytical chemistry labs. It helps a lot when you are weighing very small amounts or polymers that build up charge easily.
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