Surface active agents influence the interaction of liquids at their interface. They are often used to lower the surface tension. The DIN EN 14370 outlines how to measure the surface tension using a tensiometer together with a plate, stirrup, or ring as sample body.

DIN EN 14370: Application and Use

The surface tension of a liquid allows conclusions about how well the liquid spreads on a solid or mixes with another liquid. The DIN EN 14370 explains the determination of the surface tension of liquids, especially for solutions containing surface active ingredients. Surface active agents influence the interaction of liquids substances at their interface.

DIN EN 14370: Experimentation

Apparatus

The apparatus used in this standard should include:

• a platform, which can be raised up and down, on which the sample vessel can be placed
• a balance that can measure the force exerted on the sample body

Further, one the following sample bodies is needed:

• a plate (20 mm x 10 mm x 0,2 mm) of platinum or platinum/iridium, or
• a stirrup (length: 10-40 mm, diameter: 0,1 mm) of platinum or platinum/iridium wire, or
• a ring (thickness maximum: 0,4 mm, circumference: 60 mm) of platinum or platinum/iridium wire

All Force Tensiometers of the DCAT series from DataPhysics Instruments comply with this standard. They can perform all measurement methods described in this standard.

Procedure

The standard recommends to repeat the measurement several times to check for repeatability. The standard describes three measurement methods:

• measurement with a plate
• measurement with ring
• measurement with stirrup

The DIN EN 14370 is in use since 2004. Please note that it replaces DIN 53914:1997.

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