A method and apparatus for measuring isotherms and determining solid state
phase changes comprising a humidity generator having a temperature
controlled internal chamber, a microbalance mounted externally to the
internal chamber and a near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) probe or Raman
spectrometer probe mounted internally in the internal chamber, such that
the mass of a sample suspended within the chamber and its solid state
phase can be determined without disturbing the controlled environment
surrounding the sample. The humidity generator includes means for
controlling humidity and temperature within the internal chamber, an
access port that extends into the internal chamber. The balance is
situated near the port such that the balance mechanism extends within the
internal chamber. The balance mechanism utilizes a means for holding a
sample within the chamber such that the mass of the sample can be
determined as it equilibrates to the temperature and relative humidity
maintained within the internal cavity. The NIRS probe extends from a NIR
spectrometer. Similarly, the Raman probe extends from a Raman
spectrometer.