In the low- (2 stations) and one high pressure section of mercury porosimetry using intrusion of mercury in the open pores is possible to determine porosity, pore size distribution in range 0.006 – 1000 µm, cumulative and differential pores volume, cumulative and differential specific surface area and turtuosity (coefficient of pore shape). The both low pressure stations don’t work simultaneously.

Solid prismatic or cylindrical dried sample that sample size does not exceed 0.5 cm (diameter) and 2 cm (height) and mass is up to 0.5 – 1.0 g is placed in the sample holder. After that sample holder is sealed tightly and placed in the low pressure station of mercury porosimeter. Station will be hermetically sealed and the further analysis process takes place automatically. After reaching maximum pressure and following process of extrusion that low pressure station stops functioning, sample holder together with sample will be placed in the high pressure station. In this station pressure is provided system of hydraulic oil.

Fig. 1. Mercury porosimeter «Pore Master 33», Quantachrome Instruments (pore size from 0,064 to 950 mkm).

In the data operating system the intrusion and extrusion curves are combined. The data processing is based on intrusion curves. The computer program produces both graphical and numerical results.

The mercury porosimetry is currently the only one method for the investigation and analysis of pore structure of solids. At the same time obtained results covers other important features of porous solids. The analysis of material by use of mercury porosimetry could be carried out during 1.5 hours.