Hydrogenation enthalpimetry--I: microcomputer-assisted calibration and data-acquisition

A calorimetric device is described which permits enthalpimetric determination of unsaturated hydrocarbons through the enthalpy change for their catalytic hydrogenation. Samples with weights from < 1 to about 20 mg can be analysed with a mean error of about 2%. The method makes extensive use of digital electronics and is well suited to routine automated determination of unsaturation. The principal drawback is lack of specificity.