Precipitation –a baricentrical approach

 Described in this paper are a method and a device for investigating the sedimentation of the disperse phase in liquid polydisperse systems as a function of time and under the influence of the earth’s gravitational pull. A parameter for quantifying suspensions and emulsions according to their ability to form a sediment under the influence of gravity is described. This parameter based on measuring the horizontal component of the displacement of the centre of mass of the liquid system under investigation throughout the course of its precipitation. The system itself is investigated directly in the packaging in which it is stored and sold, which is placed immobilised and at an angle to the vertical line. The packaging remains undamaged throughout the whole investigation. This method is universal as it can be applied to all kinds of liquid polydisperse systems, i.e. fine, rough, opaque, transparent, etc. Received: 24 May 1996