Polymer characterisation

Characterisation is a means to improve the performance of a polymer material. The techniques employed should be able to accurately predict the required properties such as strength, toughness and durability.

Rheology is the most sensitive method for polymer characterisation because flow behaviour is responsive to molecular weight and molecular weight distribution. Rheology measurements are also useful in following the course of a chemical reaction. Such measurements can be used for quality control or to monitor a manufacturing process. Rheological measurements allow the study of chemical, mechanical, and thermal treatments and the effects of additives.

The chemical structure of polymers is complex because polymerization does not necessarily produce identical molecules. Polymer material typically consists of a distribution of molecular sizes and sometimes also of shapes. Analytical methods like size exclusion chromatography, low-angle laser light scattering and viscometry can be used to determine the molecular weight distribution as well as the degree of long chain branching. Other approaches are required for copolymers with short chain branching such as linear low-density polyethylene.

Thermal analysis measures changes in melting or glass transitions and these in turn can be linked to many performance parameters. Morphological parameters like nano particle size are important for the mechanical properties of many polymer materials.

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