PET Testing - ASTM D4603

Determination of the solution viscosity of PET

The PSL Polymer Testing Laboratory (based in the United Kingdom) is equipped with RPV-1 and RPV-2 viscometers for testing the solution viscosity of a wide range of polymers.

For PET testing, the laboratory can provide a quick turnaround of sample testing using the RPV-2 AutoPET with dual reaction blocks. Samples can include a wide range of PET in different crystalline grades (including high crystalline), as well as amorphous samples and re-cycled PET. The RPV-2 is also suitable for testing re-cycled PET which may contain a higher level of particulates.

The laboratory has experience in measuring PET samples from 0.5 to 1.2 dL/g reporting results to 3 decimal places with high levels of precision. Testing will be carried out in full compliance with ASTM D4603 or as specified by the customer. In particular, samples will be prepared on a weight to weight basis using the integrated sample preparation system. An optional PET control standard can be run for each viscometer measuring position for each batch of samples measured. These can also be supplied for internal customer quality control purposes.

Test Report

For each sample preparation, the test report will include the following information:

Sample ID and description

Details of the viscometer configuration used for testing

Concentration (including exact sample and solvent weight)

Dissolution conditions (temperature and time)

Average solvent flow time and interim flow times with precision obtained

Average solution flow time and interim flow times with precision obtained

Glass capillary viscometer* (type, size, serial number constant)

Testing temperature (including verification of temperature by certified reference thermometer*)

All calculated results, including: Relative viscosity, Specific viscosity, Reduced viscosity Inherent viscosity to 3 significant places Intrinsic viscosity to 3 significant places

*Certified to ISO 17025

Technical consultation

For each set of results submitted, PSL Rheotek will provide one-hour email or telecom technical support to discuss methodology and/or results reported.

How to submit your samples:

Please send your samples to:

PSL Rheotek USA – 12692 Sandy Drive, Suite 115, Granger, IN 46530, USA

PSL Polymer Testing Laboratory – Russell House, Burnham Business Park, Burnham-on-Crouch, Essex. CM0 8TE. UK

Approximately 5g of sample (or larger amount as it will be more representative of the variability of the polymer) should be sent together with the following information: Sample ID, % of inert insoluble material if greater than 0.5%, moisture content if greater than 0.5% (samples will be pre-dried subject to sample preparation) approximate dissolution temperature and time (ASTM D4603 states 110 deg. C +/- 10 deg. C, with a dissolution time of 15 to 30 minutes) as well as any custom requirements.

The PSL Polymer Testing laboratory will report results by pdf via email.

Fee code: T-DSV-PET

PET Polymer Control Standards:

20502/3 ASTM D4603 PET control standard prepared by the PSL Polymer Testing Laboratory - pack of 3

20502/10 ASTM D4603 PET control standard prepared by the PSL Polymer Testing Laboratory - pack of 10