Equilibrium Moisture Content

Measuring Moisture Content

Water damage can occur when an excessive amount of moisture is introduced to a material.

The best measure of moisture is the equilibrium moisture content (EMC). EMC is the amount of moisture that will eventually be absorbed by a material when it is exposed to a specific environment.

Factors Affecting EMC

• Temperature: The higher the temperature, the lower the EMC.
• Relative humidity: The higher the relative humidity, the higher the EMC.
• Material properties: The type of material will affect its EMC.

Importance of EMC

Knowing the EMC of a material is important for determining whether it is at risk of water damage. If the EMC of a material is higher than the moisture content of the environment, the material will absorb moisture and may become damaged.

Preventing Water Damage

There are several ways to prevent water damage, including:

• Controlling the environment: Controlling the temperature and relative humidity of the environment can help to prevent materials from absorbing excessive moisture.
• Using moisture-resistant materials: Using materials that are resistant to moisture can help to prevent water damage.
• Inspecting for moisture: Regularly inspecting materials for moisture can help to identify problems early on, before they cause damage.