Physical Properties
Bulk Density
The bulk density is defined as the mass divided by the total volume of a molding compound and is measured in g/ml. For measuring the bulk density, a measuring cup with a specified diameter is filled with compound, which pours freely from a hopper of predefined dimensions. The test is carried out to monitor the structure of powdery and grainy molding compounds. S. DIN 53466, ISO 60, ISO 61.
Filler Content
The inorganic filler content of polymers is measured by means of incineration (according to DIN 53568, 7746 and 7747). After incineration, fillers, pigments, stabilizers etc. are left over.
Thermal Properties
Thermal Analysis: DDK And DSC
Thermal analysis is the general term for all methods that involve measuring the physical and chemical properties of a substance, a mixture of substances and/or a reaction mixture as a function of temperature or time.
More DetailsThermogravimetric Analysis (TGA)
Thermogravimetry (TG) is used for continuously recording changes in the mass of substances, which are a result of changes that occur when these substances are heated. TG is particularly relevant for substance analyses that yield characteristic pyrolysis curves, as is the case for numerous polymers. The thermogravimetric decomposition profile provides information on the thermal or oxidative stability of polymers, DIN 51006, ASTM E 1131.
Glow Wire Test
Glow wire tests are flammability tests. Simulating an ignition source, an incandescent wire loop is brought into contact with a polymer. This test determines whether the sample is a fire hazard. For a period of 30 seconds, a hot NiCr wire (at 650, 750, 850 or 960°C) is pressed against an upright sample with a force of 1 N. Analysis is carried out by measuring the flame height and the burning time. See VDE 0471, Part 2, 1970.
Ash Test
Ash tests are used for determining whether a sample constitutes a fire hazard when it comes into contact with an ignition source. Analysis is carried out by observing flames, embers or flaming drips. See VDE 0471, Part 3-1, 1986-04.
Mechanical Properties
Modulus Of Elasticity (Young’s Modulus) And Tensile Strength
Tensile tests measure the gradually and quickly increasing deformation of a sample specimen or component until it breaks, creating a stress-strain-curve.
More DetailsImpact Strength Test
The impact test determines the amount of energy needed to fracture or deform a test specimen or molded component.
More DetailsFlexural Modulus Of Elasticity
The flexural modulus of elasticity is determined by means of a flexural test to DIN 53457, which is characterized by the simultaneous presence of tensile and compression stress.
Hardness Test
The hardness of polymers is determined under load during a given loading time. For determining the Shore hardness (DIN 53505) a truncated cone needle (Shore A) or needle that is not blunted (Shore D) is pressed onto a sample specimen with a spring-tensioned indenter. The penetration depth is a designation for the hardness of the material, which is measured as a dimensionless quantity on a scale of 0 to 100.
Rheological Properties
Melt Flow Index (MFI)
The melt flow index provides information on the flow behavior of polymers under a given pressure and temperature, i.e. information on the viscosity of the polymer melt. The MFI is determined by means of a capillary rheometer according to DIN EN ISO 1133: the polymer is plasticized within a heated cylinder and extruded with pressure through a capillary die. The extruded material is measured as a function of time and is expressed as MFI in g/10 min.
Melt Volume Index (MVI)
The melt volume index, MVI provides information on the flow behavior of polymers under a given pressure and temperature, i.e. information on viscosity of the polymer melt. The MVI is determined by means of a capillary rheometer. The polymer is plasticized within a heated cylinder and extruded with pressure through a capillary die. The volume of the extruded material is measured as a function of time and expressed as MFV in cm³/10 min.
Electrical Properties
Volume Resistivity
The volume resistivity between two electrodes in contact with a specimen is the ratio of the direct voltage to the part of the current that is distributed through the volume of the specimen (without that part of the current that is distributed across the surface).
More DetailsCharge Decay Measurement
Charge Decay Measurement is used for determining the time required for a given substance to lose its charge after ground contact. The higher the resistance of the sample specimen, the longer the charge decay time. The charge decay time until residual discharge measures the conductivity of a material. Different test methods are specified by ASTM F 365-73T.
Surface resistivity
The surface resistivity provides information on the level of insulation on the surface of the insulating material (sample specimen), which depends on humidity and surface contaminations.
More Details
