Dilute Solution Viscosity
DSV is a key test method for polymer characterization. By measuring the flow time of a polymer solution through a precision capillary, we can measure the viscosity. This relates to molecular weight.
DSV is a key test method for polymer characterization. By measuring the flow time of a polymer solution through a precision capillary, we can measure the viscosity. This relates to molecular weight.
DSV is a very general category of tests, all of which involve dissolving a polymer within a solvent and then measuring flow times in a viscometer. Once the flowtime is measured there are many options for calculations, to include: Relative Viscosity, Reduced Viscosity, Inherent Viscosity, and Intrinsic Viscosity.
By measuring the flow time of a polymer solution through a precision capillary, we can measure the viscosity which relates to molecular weight.
Dilute Solution Viscosity is applicable to any soluble polymer for example:
The sample must be soluble in a solvent and must be free of particles. If a sample is not particle-free, we can use ultracentrifugation or filtration to remove the particles.
We will perform Dilute Solution Viscosity in a variety of organic solvents, including hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP), tetrachlorobenzene, and trichloroethylene.
Other polymers may require dissolution and testing in sulfuric acid or other aqueous-based solvents.
Because these measurements are done with dilute solutions, a very small amount of polymer sample is needed, approximately 0.1 grams or less.
Contact us to talk through your specific sample considerations.
Dilute Solution Viscosity measurements are one of the workhorse methods of the polymer characterization laboratory.
The DSV method is applied to a very broad range of polymers and products. Some examples include: