Biennial RheoTalk Issue RheoTalk Biennial Search Facility

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1 RheoTalk Biennial Overview This cumulative Biennial RheoTalk issue has been complied to provide our Australian customers and readers of RheoTalk with an easy reference and source of the product information, application articles and news from The newsletter has been cross indexed and referenced by industry, so that each key industry area can identify the specific information that relates to their industry. The industry classifications that we have used are listed and are also colour coded: Mineral Slurries Polymer Industries Food Industries Surface Coatings Industries Chemical & General Manufacturing Industries Construction & Building Industries Pharmaceutical, Cosmetics & Allied Industries Additionally, the indexes have been divided into three sections covering Application Notes, News & Views, and Product News & Industry Applications. There is an index at the beginning of each of these sections, listing the contents within that section with a cross reference to the industry that it applies to. RheoTalk Biennial Search Facility This file has been created as a PDF which therefore provides full search function of the PDF. This means that searching can be conducted by any word, phrase, industry type, brand name, application or product model. RheoTalk Biennial In This Issue RheoTalk Biennial Information Request Form At the end of the cumulative issue of RheoTalk we have provided an information request form for those that wish further information. The form can be printed and filled out and then either faxed or posted. Alternatively, you can send an direct with details of the information you are seeking to info@rheologysolutions.com We trust that the Biennial RheoTalk will be beneficial to all that read and search through the issue. Any enquiries from the Biennial RheoTalk not within Australia will be forwarded to our overseas partner for their action. Happy reading. Application Notes Page 2-16 News & Views Page Product News & Industry Applications Page Information Request Form Page info@rheologysolutions.com <1>

2 Application Notes Application Notes & Laboratory Reports The Influence of Thickeners on the Application Method of Automotive Coatings and Paper Coatings Rheological Investigations...3 Correlation of Misting during Printing with Extensional Rheological Investigations on Offset Printing Inks...3 Optimising and Forecasting the Filling Behaviour of Coatings...4 Use of Bench-Top Twin-Screw Extruders for development of Powder Coatings...4 Degradation Tests a New Test Procedure to Examine Polymers and Antioxidants...4 The Influence of Alkali Sulphates on the Fluidity of Cement Pastes Containing Superplasticizer...5 Small Scale Twin Screw Extruders for Polyolefin s Compounding...6 Flexibility in Polymer Research...6 Use of Bench-Top Twin Screw Extruders for Development of Powder Coatings...6 Big Brother for Films...7 Film Inspection A Question of Location...7 The Embedded Solution as a Symbiosis of Intelligent Hardware and Software...7 Optical Scanning Solutions for Quality Control in the Polymer Industry...8 Controlling Enzyme Reaction...8 Rheology of Pharmaceutical Suspensions...9 Conductivity Measurement for Rubber Compound Qualification...9 Application of Liquid and Solid Rheological Technologies to the Textural Characterisation of Semi-Solid Foods...9 Cryopreservation of Mammalian Oocytes and Embryos...9 Thermo Electron Circulators for use with ABBE Refractometers...9 New Series of Industry Application Notes...13 Helpful Data for Tests with Extruder Sensors...15 Measuring Coatings...15 Industry Applications for Building and Construction Industries - Aggregation...16 Industry Applications for Chemical and Allied Industries - Substrate...16 Industry Applications for Building and Construction Industries - Shrinkage/Expansion...16 Application Reviews In-Line Viscometry and Rheometry The Options...10 Applications for Pilot Scale Twin Screw Extruders...11 Study of Starch Gelatinisation in a Flow Field Using Simultaneous Rheometric Data Collection and Microscopic Observation...12 Residence Time Measurements in Bench Top Twin Screw Extruders...12 Testing the Flow Behaviour of Two Batches of a Ceramic Injection Moulding Compound...12 Contribution to the Assessment of Some Rheological Properties of Wheat Gluten...12 Measuring the Effects of Gels Upon Mouth-Feel...12 Characterisation of Ceramics Using Rheology...13 Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) and the Measurement of Bitumen 13 Characterisation of Pressure Sensitive Adhesives (PSA- Systems)...13 Prediction of Flow Behaviour in Adhesive and Sealant Applications Using Different Rheological Measuring Techniques...13 Measurements on Selected (Semi) - Solids in a Wide Temperature Range Using New Solid Clamps...14 Examining the Fusion and Degradation Behaviour of PVC Dry Blends...14 The Influence of Two Different Types of Carbon Black on the Flow Behaviour of a SAN Masterbatch Ceramics Compounding of Feed Stock with PTW16XL and Sample Production with HAAKE MiniJet...14 ALL INDUSTRIES POLYMER FOOD SURFACE COATINGS MINERAL MANUFACTURING CHEMICAL PHARMACEUTICAL BUILDING info@rheologysolutions.com <2>

3 Application Note The influence of thickeners on the application method of automotive coatings and paper coatings rheological investigations Key Words: paper coatings, automotive coatings, misting, elongational viscosity, HAAKE CaBER 1. Spraying automotive coatings and the application of paper coatings are industrial processes, in which elongational flows play an important role. As a result, the application behaviour of these fluids often cannot be sufficiently characterised with traditional shear experiments. Products with similar shear viscosities can have very different elongational properties. With the HAAKE CaBER 1 extensional rheometer, a liquid filament is created that is stretched under the influence of surface tension. Using the decrease in the filament diameter as a function of time and the life of the filament, it is possible to characterise the elongational behaviour of low viscosity to pasty liquids in a simple way. The rheological properties of typical water-based automotive coating and paper coatings are determined by the thickeners used and their interactions with the other recipe components. In this experiment, different types of thickeners display a characteristic decrease in the filament diameter as a function of time. Different break-up times are desirable, depending on the application. When automotive coatings are sprayed, short breakup times are advantageous in order to obtain the finest possible drop distribution. When paper coatings are applied with rollers, spraying and misting should be prevented as much as possible, which means that formulations with long break-up times are advantageous. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: V-206 a b c d Sequence of a CaBER measurement: filament formation (a), filament necking (b,c) & filament break-up (d). Application Notes Correlation of misting during printing with extensional rheological investigations on offset printing inks Key Words: coating, elongational viscosity, misting, offset printing ink, HAAKE CaBER 1 The tendency for misting on offset printing inks was examined on two samples using the rotational rheometer HAAKE RheoStress 600 and the extensional rheometer HAAKE CaBER 1. The results for the amplitude and frequency curve, the creep and recovery test and the flow curve measurement with the rotational rheometer do not correlate with misting during printing. With the extensional rheometer, it was possible with the aid of the filament break-up time to easily and quickly draw distinctions between different tendencies for misting with offset printing inks. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: V-208 info@rheologysolutions.com <3>

4 Application Note Optimising and forecasting the filling behaviour of coatings HAAKE CaBER 1 Key Words: coatings, filling process, extensional viscosity, filament lifetime, temperature dependence, stringiness, HAAKE CaBER 1. Two coatings, which showed different stringing behaviour when filled into containers during a production process, have been investigated with the HAAKE CaBER 1 extensional rheometer. It was shown that the filament lifetime as measured corresponds directly with the behaviour seen in the production process. By changing the processing temperature, the behaviour of the problematic sample could be optimised. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: V-211 The HAAKE CaBER 1 is available for instrument evaluation or contract testing. Laboratory Report Use of bench-top twin-screw extruders for development of powder coatings Key Words: powder coatings, extruder, twin-screw, bench-top. Twin-screw extruders are widely used for dispersion of pigments and additives into thermosetting resins for the manufacture of powder coatings. This paper outlines the manufacturing process for thermoset powder coatings and the availability small-scale twinscrew extruders together with a range of ancillary equipment, to assist the powder coating producer in development, sample preparation, colour matching and testing of the product. It also describes the element of heat transfer in scale-up from laboratory extruders to production plant. A full copy of this report is available by quoting LR-50 Laboratory Report Degradation tests a new test procedure to examine polymers and antioxidants Key Words: Small sample mass, degradation, antioxidants, HAAKE MiniLab Degradation of polymers, i.e., main chain scission, seriously impacts the processability and optical and mechanical properties of the end product. Commercial plastics contain additives and antioxidants to minimise the effects of degradation caused during processing. Even with the use of these substances, transport phenomena, including migration of additives, gas and vapour permeability, oxygen absorption and distribution of the additives, influence the kinetics of thermo-oxidative degradation, and stabilisation. Quality control tests of polymer thermal stability usually are conducted without a melt mixing process despite the effects of degradation. This is especially true when the polymer is expensive and even small amounts of the material cannot be wasted. A full copy of this report is available by quoting LR-52 A large number of application and laboratory reports are available free from Rheology Solutions. A complete listing of these is available by application industry classification at info@rheologysolutions.com <4>

5 Application Note The influence of Alkali Sulphates on the fluidity of cement pastes containing Superplasticizer Along with strength and durability, the workability is an important property of mineral based materials like concrete, mortar, plaster etc. Up to now, this property is often still estimated or determined in a very heuristic way with spread tables or slump cones. In the last few years the development of new additives like stabilisers and superplasticisers has led to new construction materials like ultra high strength concrete or self compacting concrete. For these new materials formulation design and an understanding of the rheological properties for material handling and transportation is needed. In praxis there are a lot of compatibility problems between the modern additives and the classical binders like cement and gypsum. You must also regard that building materials like cement paste, mortar, or tile adhesives are, unfortunately, not only non-newtonian but also dependent on time and shear history. Hana Kucerová, University of Technology, Brno, Czech Republic (in cooperation with Christiane Rößler, Bauhaus University Weimar, Germany) conducted a research project on the influence of K 2 SO 4 in the rheological properties of cement paste with superplasticizers (SP). The workability loss of cement paste containing SP due to the alkali sulfates is often described only by the adsorption of the SPs on the surface of the cement particles. The research project was realised with one Cement (CEM I 52,5R), four different K 2 SO 4 concentrations between 0 and 0.29 mol/l and three SPs. Two based on polycarboxylate esters (PCE), and one on naphthalene sulfonate condensates (NSF). The water/cement ratio was 0.39, the SP dosage constant 1.5%. The adsorption of the PC was measured by TOC analysis of the pore solution, the syngenite and C3A content by X- ray diffraction analysis. Results: Superplasticizer Adsorption (Method: TOC): addition of K 2 SO 4 decreases SP adsorption The rheological behaviour (Method: Viskomat Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 1 and 2 show the shear resistance at a constant shear rate over time, measured with the Viskomat NT*, with (figure 1) and without (figure 2) SP of the PCE type. It can be shown that the shear resistance increases with the K 2 SO 4 dosage with and without SPs. Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 3 and 4 show the different structures in the cement paste with and without K 2 SO 4, scanned with an environmental scanning electron microscope. In figure 3 the needlelike syngenite crystals can be seen. In accordance to the rheological measurements with the Viskomat NT* it could be shown, that the workability loss of cement paste with K 2 SO 4 is mostly based on the growth of syngenite. The extent of syngenite growth, is influenced by the SPs. NT*) of cement pastes is controlled by: quantity of syngenite formed adsorption behaviour of superplasticizers reactivity and amount of C3A Microstructure and Phase composition of cement pastes (ESEM): 0.85 % K2Oaq results in significant quantities of syngenite syngenite content > 1%: significant influence on the fluidity of cement pastes superplasticizer influences the syngenite formation specifically PC type superplasticizers decrease the quantity of syngenite. changes in the morphology of syngenite and ettringite due to SPs addition could not be detected Authors: Ing. Hana Kucerová Brno University of Technology Institute of Building Materials & Components Veveri 95, Brno, Czech Republic kucerova.h@fce.vutbr.cz Ing. Christiane Rößler Bauhaus University Weimar Faculty for Civil Engineering, F.A. Finger Institute for Building Materials Science Coudraystraße 11a, Weimar, Germany christiane.roesler@bauing.uniweimar.de (*) Note: Viskomat NT is a rotational viscometer and a brand name of Schleibinger Gerate GmbH. info@rheologysolutions.com <5>

6 Application Notes Small Scale Twin Screw Extruders for Polyolefin s Compounding This paper outlines the process for compounding additives into polyolefin s and describes the application of small twin-screw extruders to melt-mixing polyolefin compounds. Twin-screw design and the conflicting demands of torque and free volume will be explained and, the critical factors for a reliable scale-up to production plant will be considered. Finally extruders for both product development and quality control will be described, for use with samples as small as 100 g, up to production rates of 400 k/hr. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: PRISM-003 Having compounded the ingredients to give the required properties, the melt must be converted into a useable product. The simplest method is to extrude as strands, cool in water, blow off the water and cut the cooled strands into pellets. Flexibility in Polymer Research Ansgar Frendel, Matthias Jährling, Thermo Electron Corporation Karlsruhe, Germany Material Testing. In every industry today, time to market is decisive. A short time to market is closely linked to the capability to react flexibly to market requirements. In this context, careful testing of a product, even at the beginning of its lifecycle is absolutely necessary. The polymer industry provides a clear illustration of the reasons for measuring and testing new products at an early stage. Plastic is a material in whose development measuring tools that are able to give sound mechanical characteristics are used at an early stage. These parameters significantly influence the production and processing of polymers. Process-relevant features, such as fusion characteristics, impact of additives, temperature and shear stability, and dynamical viscosity under shear action, are the key factors influencing the development of new polymers. Another way to optimize technological parameters in the plastics industry, to generate test specimens or to check viscosity, dispersion or plastifying characteristics during quality inspections in goods entry and output is process simulation in the form of compounding and extrusion of blocks, profiles or foils in combination with rheological or visual measurements. One approach to developing productionoriented measuring instruments is to reproduce production equipment in midget sizes, which require only kilograms in the test bed or even grams of a material in the development lab instead of tons in production. Thermo Electron Corporation was among the first providers of commercially available torque rheometers with processing attachments such as kneading unit and extruder (product line by HAAKE). Today, this test system is a digitized measuring system featuring sophisticated computer control. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: HA029. Use of Bench-Top Twin Screw Extruders for Development of Powder Coatings Twin-screw extruders are widely used for dispersion of pigments and additives into Twin-screw extruders are widely used for dispersion of pigments and additives into thermosetting resins for the manufacture of powder coatings. This paper outlines the manufacturing process for thermoset powder coatings and the availability of small-scale twin-screw extruders together with a range of PRISM TSE 36 PC Powder Coating Extrusion Line ancillary equipment, to assist the powder coating producer in development, sample preparation, colour matching and testing of the product. It also describes the key element of heat transfer in scale-up from laboratory extruders to production plant. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: LR50 info@rheologysolutions.com <6>

7 Application Notes Big Brother for Films Oliver Hissmann Optical Control Systems GmbH Surface Inspection. There is a general trend in on-line analysis of plastic films for self-learning, intelligent systems as part of higher-level quality information or production data acquisition systems. With these systems, film producers can monitor the quality of their products continuously and objectively and therefore optimize the production process itself. Is it a fly, a gel or a tiny hole in the film? Modern surface inspection systems will immediately detect and identify surface defects in plastic film. High-performance cameras, fast data transmission and adaptive software allow comprehensive and objective on-line monitoring of plastic film and help troubleshooting. Producers benefit with a reduction in machine downtimes, raw material savings, optimized compounding and improved customer loyalty due to guaranteed quality. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: OSC-001 Application Notes Film Inspection A question of Location Oliver Hissmann Optical Control Systems GmbH In-line Production Control. Film inspection systems support the film manufacturer in the objective quality control of their products and in process optimisation. When integrating such a system, the question arises of where to install it: should it be located in the extrusion, laminating or cutting section? Each variation has its advantages. The customer expects perfect quality. The film manufacturer wants to make optimum use of his production lines. Reason enough to integrate a film inspection system in the film production line. After all, without such a system, it is almost impossible to obtain objective information about the quality of the manufactured film. Once the decision has been taken to install such a film inspection device, the question arises of where to put it: what is the ideal location within the production line? Should the system be positioned in the extrusion, laminating (finishing) or slitting (slittery winder) section? A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: OSC-003 Application Notes The Embedded Solution as a Symbiosis of Intelligent Hardware and Software Oliver Hissmann Optical Control Systems GmbH Film Inspection. The concept of the embedded solution combines the advantages of CCD line-scan cameras with those of traditional client/server systems, while offering greater standarisation, better performance and lower costs. Along with practical examples, a cost estimate for successful integration of inspection systems is given. Intelligent camera systems are characterized by the fact that the evaluation unit is integrated into the housing. Thus results a compact component that is connected to the server by an Ethernet bus. A distance of 100 m between the camera system and the server (industrial PC) can be bridged with this concept. The server visualizes the errors, documents them in memos and/or a data base and gives alarms (control alarm lamp/horn or labeling machine). Data evaluation takes place via programmable hardware components, eg. Flex design or digital signal processors (DSP). This makes these camera systems relatively inflexible in relation to specific customer requirements. At the same time the cameras also have only limited calculation capability and thus make buffering of only a few defect patterns possible, for instance, whereas with other concepts up to 1000 such patterns can be buffered per second. Finally, special cameras are involved that are built only in small numbers for this area. The development pace for these systems is accordingly low. This shows for instance in the availability of data rates and line lengths. The camera systems used are only 40 MHz and have at most 4096 pixels; current standards are 120 MHz and 6144 to at most 8192 pixels. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: OSC-002 info@rheologysolutions.com <7>

8 Application Note Optical Scanning Solutions for Quality Control in the Polymer Industry The polymer industry has long been interested in finding new and reliable methods for QA/QC enhancement. Polymer processing in general has three major areas of crucial interest to the quality control engineer. The first is dry blend production, in which plasticisers, fillers, stabilisers, lubricants etc are added to the polymer powder. This is usually done with high speed mixing devices, and the resulting blend may be fed directly to the extruder through its hopper, or made into pellets for easier handling, and then fed to the extruder. During the initial feeding, mixing and pelletising operations it is not unusual for impurities to be introduced into the blend, either through lower than expected purity of the ingredients, or from the environment, especially in the case of systems which are not fully enclosed, or which may have had a different recipe in the mixer, hopper or extruder previously and which were not suitably cleaned prior to the next production run. The presence of impurities can cause difficulties in processing later in the process, leading to poor quality product leaving the screw tip of the extruder. This may be manifested by irregular episodes of higher or lower than expected power requirements in the extruder, or by visible impurities and defects in the final product, such as fish eyes or discolouration. This article reviews quality control and product development possibilities using non-intrusive detection techniques. The techniques reviewed in this note are the optical and near infra red scanning systems and software such as those developed by Optical Control Systems GmbH (OCS) for both feed and product quality analysis, as well as the highly instrumented extruders and take off systems available to engineers and scientists today. A full copy of this technical note is available by quoting reference no: Rheo023-TP Application Note Controlling Enzyme Reaction Toni Kölbli Thermo Electron Corporation Karlsruhe, Germany Abstract Controlling temperature is crucial for enzyme reactions as too high a temperature can bring a reaction to a complete stop. Thermo Electron Corporation s HAAKE Phoenix II heated circulator baths allow technicians to control temperature during enzyme reactions. Enzyme Reactions and Temperature Control Enzyme reaction technology is used for a wide variety of analytical applications, including life science, food and beverages, and agriculture. In addition to variables like ph and enzyme concentration, temperature control is one of the most important factors in these reactions. All chemical reactions speed up as temperature is raised. According to Worthington-Biochem s Introduction to Enzymes, a ten degree centigrade rise in temperature will increase the activity of most enzymes by 50 to 100%. The text goes on to add, Variations in reaction temperature may introduce changes of 10 to 20 percent in results. However, temperature above the enzyme s optimum (that is, where an enzyme exhibits maximum activity) can abruptly render an enzyme ineffective. At this temperature point, the kinetic energy of the enzyme and water molecules is so great that the structure of the enzyme molecules is disrupted. Systems used to control enzymes temperature must have the ability to: React quickly and accurately. Remain accurate at the indicated temperature over a long period. Have a recirculation pattern in the bath which is equal around the surface of the bath. Controlling Temperature with HAAKE Circulator Baths In standard temperature control baths, the approach to reaching the correct temperature is often too fast and results in over-shoot. In a sinusoidal way, the temperature swings around the set temperature before it becomes stabilized. This overshoot may influence the performance of the reaction and may even stop it completely. The effect of temperature on enzyme catalysed reactions: The velocity of a chemical reaction increases with increasing temperature (A) but because of the increasing denaturation of the protein, the proportion of the active enzyme falls (B). These two processes result in the characteristic temperature profile of an enzyme (C). HAAKE Phoenix II circulator baths eliminate the problem of overshoot. Basic in its design is the FuzzyStar software, which allows the cooling step and the heating step to work together. The Phoenix II s temperature sensor is placed in the bath, allowing the different cycles react quickly to temperature changes and preventing the bath s contents from going over the set temperature. In addition, the unit s circulation pump assures even temperature conditions throughout the bath, guaranteeing high precision and low turbulence. The HAAKE bath s single screen display with a wide angle view allows users to set the system in any of six languages, including SI and common standards such PSI or F, using a simple command structure. Storing sample preparation data is easily accomplished via the Phoenix II s three communication ports. The unit can be connected to a wide range of external controls via an RS232/RS485 and/or Siemens Profibus interface, allowing users to track application performance and making it easy to exclude the temperature control step as a variable when looking at the results. The Phoenix II s compact design, user-friendly software and reliable temperature accuracy make this an ideal unit for any lab conducting enzyme reactions. A reprint of this paper is available by quoting reference no: TC05-02e info@rheologysolutions.com <8>

9 Rheology Solutions Application and Technical Articles Rheology of Pharmaceutical Suspensions The rheological behaviour of pharmaceutical suspensions influences a wide range of applications, like production, bottling processes and storage. In addition to the actual medicinal components, often only available in milligram amounts, a drug contains a number of additives which give the preparation its required form (eg: tablets, solution, gel, emulsion). Many pharmaceutical products are produced in the form of a suspension. Suspensions are usually dispensed in bottles or sachets and are taken from a spoon. The rheological properties of both liquid and semi-solid pharmaceutical products are important for the bottling process (pumps, dispensers) and for the selection of suitable packaging. For example, a nose spray needs to demonstrate a certain viscosity so that the active ingredient can be applied via a spray. Similarly, all products that are administered by drops (eg, eye drops, ear drops) must drop out of the bottle slowly under the effect of gravity. With suspensions there is also the question of storage and transportability. The sinking of solid particles is not usually desirable. Even without the bottle being shaken prior to use, the solid particles should be evenly distributed throughout the liquid and remain suspended. That is why stabilisers are added to a medicine in the form of polymers to give the product its required properties. During extensive tests, employing the shaking of the products as well as temperature changes, the newly developed medicines were divided into stable and unstable products. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: V-216 Conductivity Measurement for Rubber Compound Qualification Laboratory-scaled mixers (such as the HAAKE PolyLab System) have been in use in the rubber industry for a long time. They treat small rubber samples and allow the testing of elastomers with respect to their behaviour during mastication and how compound ingredients change the processability. The conductivity of rubber compounds as a measure for dispersion of carbon black is most important. High quality standards of elastomers, their compounds and final products have to be realised at the lowest possible price, because the competitive situation and the requirements have increased extremely during recent years. This leads to the necessity of optimising the development process from the compound design to the presentation of the new products. As a result, more and more manufacturers have started to bring compound development and processing closer together and are actively looking for methods to link laboratory-scaled test results with production experience. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: LR-46e Application of Liquid and Solid Rheological Technologies to the Textural Characterisation of Semi-Solid Foods Keywords: Texture profile analysis, TPA, rotational rheometry, taste panel, hardness, cohesiveness, elastic quality, viscoelastic moduli, complex viscosity. Rotational rheometers and texture analysers are commonly used to test liquid and solid samples respectively. This paper explores data provided by a texture analyser and a rheometer compared with that provided by a trained taste panel for semi-solid food. Associations are shown to exist for four different types of cream cheese with respect to the findings of a taste panel, rotational rheometry and Texture Profile Analysis (TPA). Hardness, cohesiveness and adhesiveness are discussed for both taste panel and TPA. Good relationships were found between these techniques for hardness and adhesiveness, cohesiveness exhibited a less satisfactory correlation. In the case of the rheometer, yield stress, complex viscosity and viscoelastic moduli were measured. Yield stress was found to relate to hardness and adhesiveness, and complex viscosity and viscous modulus had relevance for cohesiveness. Elastic modulus, measured by the rheometer, and TPA elastic quality also correlated well. The relationships between textural measurements and microstructural engineering of the products have been discussed. The presence of vegetable gums, in particular addition of guar in instances where fat content is low can reduce the textural impact of the fat removal. The effects of high levels of calcium in spreadable products can be reduced by the addition of citric acid, which has been shown in the past to solubilise colloidal calcium phosphate. Combining instrumental techniques with a taste panel can increase the efficiency product quality assurance and design. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: Rheo049 Cryopreservation of Mammalian Oocytes and Embryos Cryopreservation of bovine embryos has become a standard method of commercial embryo transfer. The process requires a transportable unit that offers all the advantages of a large-scale, high performance laboratory cryostat used for research purposes. Thermo offers several cryostats that are ideal for this application. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: TC05-03e Thermo Electron Circulators for use with ABBE Refractometers Accurate refractrometric results can only be achieved by stabilising the temperature during measurement. ABBE refractometers combined with a HAAKE DC10-K10 or HAAKE DC10- P5/U circulator deliver reliable results for quality control laboratories. Combining a precision ABBE refractometer with a compatible and accurate external liquid temperature control system will ensure precise refractive index measurements. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: TC05-01e info@rheologysolutions.com <9>

10 Application Review In-Line Viscometry and Rheometry The Options Dr. Tim Kealy, Technical Manager Introduction The need for in-line measurement of viscosity and other rheology related parameters has long been a requirement for many industries, including those as diverse as coatings, food, polymer, mining etc. Rheological properties can help a production engineer to evaluate the quality of the product in the process with respect to a predetermined criterion. On-Line MFI In particular for the polymer industry, Melt Flow Index (MFI) is an often-used criterion for quality control, and this can now be achieved on-line, using the HAAKE PCR. The PCR is specifically designed to provide the user with regular information on the MFI of a product during the production process, without the operator having to take a sample off-line, to the laboratory for assessment. Production time and potential reprocessing of out-of-spec product can be minimised. HAAKE PCR Process Control Rheometer On-Line QC Viscosity Measurement On-line, single-point viscosity and temperature can be continuously monitored using the Marimex suite of torsional probes. These probes can be used in almost any industry, from low viscosity applications like some liquid foods or mining slurries, through to high viscosity applications, like pastes, concrete, and polymer melts. These probes offer the opportunity for the process engineer to continuously monitor the process as it impacts on the material viscosity, and they can be used in conjunction with most PLC control systems and can be easily mounted in either a tank or in a pipe. They measure a single point viscosity (i.e. the viscosity at a single shear rate, of approximately 4s -1 ), which will deviate according to the flow properties of the material in the vessel or pipe. User defined temperature and viscosity QC criteria can be input so that out-of-spec materials are quickly detected. Marimex ViscoScope In-Line Viscometer On-Line Viscosity Curves for Extrusion Applications A fuller definition of the material flowing through an extruder is often required. For most polymers and some foods, a pump combined with rheology dies can be placed at the end of an extruder, to provide a full flow curve for the material (i.e. viscosity data for a wide range of shear rates). This allows a full picture of the flow behaviour to be known during production, and so the suitability of the product for flow through a nozzle (high shear), into a mould (medium shear) and to fill the edges and corners of the mould (low shear) can all be determined using one online piece of equipment. The rheology dies and melt-pump assembly is known as the HAAKE ProFlow On-Line Melt Rheometer HAAKE ProFlow. It is also possible to use a special extensional die in the HAAKE ProFlow assembly to provide relative extensional viscosity in cases where, for example, fibre spinning or other applications where the flow field is dominated by extensional forces occur. On-Line Viscoelastic Measurements In some cases, steady shear viscosity, like that measured in the Marimex ViscoScope or HAAKE ProFlow systems is not as important as the viscoelastic properties of the materials. These properties, the viscous and elastic moduli and the complex viscosity provide us with information about the relative contributions of solid- and liquid-like components in the material to how it will flow and recoil. There now exists a HAAKE Piezo Axial Viscometer (PAV), which can measure these properties continuously online. The user is informed at all times during the process about how the product is performing with respect to the viscoelastic flow properties, and QC variables, like the crossover point of the moduli (G C ), or the polydispersity index (PI) can be used in conjunction with these measurements to evaluate the product during production. HAAKE PAV Squeeze Flow Rheometer Conclusion The Options As a result of these many innovations, a suitable on-line solution can be offered for most applications, regardless of the type of industry. Either a simple change in a set value can be monitored (HAAKE PCR, or Marimex ViscoScope), or a more complete picture of the material flow properties is possible (HAAKE ProFlow or HAAKE PAV), depending on the specific requirements of the user. info@rheologysolutions.com <10>

11 Application Review Applications for Pilot Scale Twin Screw Extruders Pharmaceutical twin-screw extruders and ancillaries for continuous processing Powder Coating - Bench-top twinscrew extruder and production-scale modular twin-screw extruder PRISM TSE 16 PC - Bench-top twin-screw extruder and ancillaries Small-scale continuous processing for research, development, colour matching and quality control in the powder coatings industry. The PRISM TSE 16 Powder Coatings (PC) twin-screw extruders are bench -top units pre-wired with a manual control panel. The open-barrel design promotes single screw removal and easy, efficient cleaning. The PRISM TSE 16 PC extruders are designed for bench-top operation. The horizontally-split barrels are quick to open, giving easy access to screws and process contact surfaces for cleaning and configuration changes. The barrel has additional ports for feeding solids and liquids, or for venting. A simple, manual control panel houses controls and instruments to operate the extruder and feeders. A PLC-controlled version with touch screen operator interface is also available. Low maintenance, brushless variable speed AC motors drive the screws at up to 500 rpm. Available in different barrel lengths of 14:1 and 24:1, the PRISM TSE 16 PC is suitable for research, development or small-scale production. PRISM TSE 36 PC - Productionscale modular twin-screw extruder Flexible and reliable powder coating extrusion at outputs up to 350 kg/hr. The PRISM TSE 36 Powder Coatings (PC) twin-screw extruder features a segmented screw configuration and modular open barrel design to handle a full range of formulations. Each barrel segment is heated and cooled separately for precise process control. The PRISM TSE 36 PC twin-screw extruder is ideal for small-scale production. A horizontally split barrel, 28:1 L/D, is hinged for easy access to the screws, and the screws themselves have a simple removal device for quick and easy cleaning or configuration changes. Simple controls may be mounted on the extruder or in a separate free-standing cabinet. A colour touch screen interface can be added for standard data logging with the option to download to a remote computer for archiving and analysis. These controls include recipe storage to pre-set extruder parameters for repeatable process conditions. Each barrel section has independent temperature control with PID logic to give precise temperatures and save energy. A low maintenance brushless 22 kw motor drives the screws at up to 750 rpm. An option for 30 kw at 1000 rpm screw speed is available. Applications: Powder coatings, Thermosets and Resin development Materials: Epoxy resins, Polyester resins, Polyurethane resins, Hybrid formulations and Pharmaceuticals PRISM PHARMALAB - Pilot scale modular twin-screw extruder Small-scale continuous processing for research, development and production in the pharmaceutical industry. The PRISM PHARMALAB compounder has PLC control with data logging and recipe storage ensuring reliable and repeatable results. Products can be related back to processing conditions. The stainless steel compounders are built to GMP standards with a focus on a clean, streamlined GMP design. Available in 16 mm and 24 mm sizes, the PRISM PHARMALAB series can be used for research, development or production of pharmaceutical formulations. Additionally, a full range of ancillary equipment is available for product mixing, and post-extrusion processing. The horizontally split barrels (up to 40:1 L/D) have a crevice-free, GMP design. Quick release clamps give easy access to screws and process contact surfaces for cleaning or configuration changes. The barrel is modular, with segments available for feeding solids and liquids, or for venting. The variable speed AC motors are brushless and therefore low maintenance. The touch-screen display is easy to use and easy to clean. The PLC incorporates data acquisition with an option to download to a remote computer for archiving and analysis. The controls include recipe storage of preset extruder parameters for repeatable process conditions. Applications: Melt granulation, Biomedical compounds Water sensitive products and Medical adhesives Materials: Medical polymers, Drug delivery systems and Soft gels info@rheologysolutions.com <11>

12 Application & Technical Articles Study of Starch Gelatinisation in a Flow Field Using Simultaneous Rheometric Data Collection and Microscopic Observation by Long Yu 1,3*, Tim Kealy 2 and Hongshen Liu 3 1 Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization Manufacturing and Infrastructure Technology, Melbourne, Australia 2 Rheology Solutions Pty Ltd., Australia. 3 Certre for Polymer from Renewable Resources South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, P.R. China Key words: Starch, gelatinisation, shear stress, microscopy Abstract Gelatinisation of aqueous cornstarch dispersions with different amylose/amylopectin ratios were studied with respect to their response to the simultaneous application of thermal and mechanical stresses. The study was conducted using a combined controlled stress (CS) rheometer and microscope with camera, allowing variations of viscosity and microstructure to be recorded concurrently. The microscopic images were recorded by the camera, one image for each rheological data point. It is the first time a direct relationship between viscosity and physical variation of starch granules in dispersion has been established and directly optically observed for starch gelatinisation in the presence of an applied shear field. It was found that there are two steps for starch gelatinisation under these conditions with regard to the physical transition of the starch granules: (1) starch swelling and gradual dissolving and leaching of starch components; (2) rapid dissolution of a high proportion of the granule. In the first step the viscosity increased gradually, as the starch granule was slowly dissolved and materials were leached into the water carrier. The granules became almost transparent in the presence of the applied thermal and mechanical fields and dimensional changes in the starch granules (swelling) during the latter stages of gelatinisation can not be clearly observed. In the second step, the starch granule disappeared in a short time and viscosity of the aqueous material increased sharply. The gelatinisation temperature under shear stress, as measured by the CS rheometer/microscope combination is lower than that measured by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) under shear-less conditions. This paper has been accepted for publication in the International Journal for Polymer Processing. Copies of the full paper are available only from the journal. Residence Time Measurements in Bench Top Twin Screw Extruders Co-rotating twin screw extruders are widely used for dispersion of fillers, pigments and additives into thermoplastic materials. This paper outlines experiments on two different sized twin screw extruders, with results showing the relationships between screw speed and feed rate and its effect on residence. When a new material is developed, it is economic and convenient to make initial mixing tests on a small scale, before introducing the product onto a large capacity production line. When making a product on a small scale it is important to understand how different operating conditions will affect product control. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: LR-55 Testing the Flow Behaviour of Two Batches of a Ceramic Injection Moulding Compound In this case when using an MFI tester and a mixer sensor, no differences in the batches could be recognised although problems in the production occurred. One can differentiate between two ceramic injection moulding compounds samples by surveying the flow curves provided by the extruder capillary rheometer tests. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: LR-21 Contribution to the Assessment of Some Rheological Properties of Wheat Gluten The production of wheat gluten has increased dramatically and is expected to continue to increase. New markets and applications are being sought, and this has made it important to characterize the properties of wheat gluten in order for it to be suitable for different applications. A means of differentiating wheat glutens is with rheometry, and the present paper attempted assessing some of the rheological properties. Wheat gluten, as a damp gluten or a rehydrated dry gluten, is a viscoelastic material that is highly shear and time dependent. Its properties can be modified by choice of solvent and dispersing agents. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no:v-16 Measuring the Effects of Gels Upon Mouth-Feel The use of gels in the food and pharmaceutical industry to alter products, control their consistency, and contribute to the structure and appearance of the product is enormous. By altering gels one can for example produce a soft and chewy candy as opposed to a hard candy. These issues are also important in the pharmaceutical industry since oral drugs will have a particular mouthfeel associated with their digestion. Children prefer a gummy consistency whereas adults generally prefer a liquid feel. The question arises, How can the rheological (flow) properties of gels be characterized. It is generally not sufficient to measure flow curves since they yield no information about the elastic properties of the gel. A better technique is forced-oscillation which directly measures the magnitude of the elastic and viscous components. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no:v-51 info@rheologysolutions.com <12>

13 Characterisation of Ceramics Using Rheology An engineer working for a major ceramic R&D centre is having difficulties in characterising two different materials. The materials are basically a mixture of wax and ceramic powder. The materials are compounded and subsequently injection moulded. In order to enhance the characterisation of ceramic materials, as well as many other types of samples, dynamic mechanical experiments provide a very powerful approach. Dynamic mechanical analysis can be used to analyse elastic and viscous material response simultaneously. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: V-164 Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) and the Measurement of Bitumen After 5 years if work, the 150 million US Dollar project Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) ended and a report of 300,000 pages was present. 50 million US Dollars were used to determine the physical and chemical properties of bitumen and asphalt products. It was also necessary to develop new measurement methods to specify the behaviour of the products under real conditions. To determine the processing behaviour of bitumen a simple viscosity measurement with a rotational viscometer at 135ºC is necessary. Using dynamic shear measurements (oscillation), it is possible to obtain information about the softness of the asphalt during application on the pavement; the recovery from deformation at increased temperatures; and whether fatigue cracks will occur at low temperatures. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: V-190 Characterisation of Pressure Sensitive Adhesives (PSA- Systems) For many industrial products the adhesive procedure gluing has gained more and more importance during the past years. Especially in high-tech applications, e.g. in the automotive or aircraft construction industries adhesive joints are replacing the classical joining procedures like welding or screwing. Due to these numerous new applications the requirements on adhesives are becoming more specialized. This trend for specialization can also be observed in more traditional applications for adhesives like e.g. labels. The meticulous fulfillment of the existing quality criteria entails high demands on the development of new adhesive systems. With the recipes becoming more and more complex the evidence of many analytical methods becomes rather constricted. In order to determine application properties exactly usually very time- and energy consuming empirical tests are necessary binding the working power of the personnel. In order to achieve improvements here, many industrial firms rely more and more on rheological detection methods thus gaining fast and operator-independent measuring results. As a macroscopic method rheology describes the flow properties of the complete system. The goal is to determine characteristic values from measuring quantities like viscosity and elasticity in order to be able to predict adhesive properties and application behaviors. This report demonstrates on two examples that this can be achieved for the behavior during processing as well as for the product properties. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: V-153 Prediction of Flow Behaviour in Adhesive and Sealant Applications Using Different Rheological Measuring Techniques The demand for high quality adhesive and sealant products continues to increase. Application problems with these products,to name a few, include sedimentation, storage stability, poor processing properties and poor surface characteristics. Whether it is research, development, process engineering or quality control, rheology is important in all of these fields. There are many rheological questions for adhesives and sealants used in a wide variety of applications. Modern rheometers provide answers to many questions that help customers solve product problems. Rheometers, with a wide range of testing procedures, can simulate application processes and characterize a material s suitability for those applications. The resulting data can be interpreted and correlated with applications to predict requisite material properties or show directions and ways to change the processes or the materials. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: V-161 Application Notes New Series of Industry Application Notes - Available end February 2006 Often industries must overcome problems related to (and often dominated by) the flow properties of their product, though the relationship between these properties and production related issues are not always immediately apparent. It is the purpose of these series of articles... Tim's Top Tips, to help illuminate the issues faced by the industry, how they relate to the flow properties of the problem materials and how they can be successfully measured and controlled with a view to better processing. Each note focuses on commonly encountered measurement issues and suggests solutions for solving these challenges. Each application note includes: working definitions, background and discussion comparing current testing procedures and methods and summarises the measuring techniques in a comparison table by method/instrument used. These notes are available free on request. Tim's Top Tips for Surface Coatings... covering: Shelf Life, Flow and Leveling, Misting, and Mixing and Blending Tim's Top Tips for Polymer Industries... covering: Compounding, Processability, Shark Skin, and Die Swell Already in the series Tim s Top Tips for Food Industries covering: Mouthfeel, Shelf Life, Processability, and Cohesiveness Register now to receive your copies of Tim's Top Tips for the industry of interest. info@rheologysolutions.com <13>

14 Application & Technical Articles HAAKE MiniJet micro injection moulding machine Ceramics Compounding of Feed Stock with PTW16XL and Sample Production with HAAKE MiniJet Key words: Ceramics, Twin Screw Extruder, Injection Moulding Powder Injection Moulding is a useful process as a large number of complex products are produced with short cycle times. Base products are fine ceramics or metal powder blended with binder to form a flowable feedstock for injection moulding. These two steps are investigated on a small scale using laboratory equipment. In test runs with small laboratory compounders the feasibility of binder-powder compound can be proved. Binder systems are based on waxes, or Polymers LDPE, PP, POM are used. Compared to masterbatch compounds the focus is on highest degree of filling of the powder, still obtaining a feed stock which can be used in a moulding process. The green parts undergo a heat treatment (sintering). End products are eg: catalyst beads, turbine blades. Usually laboratory development will check for maxim degree of filling and compatibility or performance of the binder or polymer. Moreover trials for eg: powder metal alloys easily can be performed, in order to change the composition with various components. The HAAKE MiniJet enables quick tests on processability. The samples could be sintered and used for mechanical testing. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: LR-56 The Influence of Two Different Types of Carbon Black on the Flow Behaviour of a SAN Masterbatch. Key words: Torque Rheometer, Mixer Test, Carbon Black Variations of the filler structure can have a drastic effect on the flow behaviour and so the processability of polymer compounds. In the described case a masterbatch producer had changed the supplier of the carbon black. The new carbon black caused major problems in production. The report describes a fast and reliable test method to characterise the influence of filler properties on the flow behaviour of a polymer masterbatch. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: LR-05 Examining the Fusion and Degradation Behaviour of PVC Dry Blends Key words: Mixer Test, PVC Dry Blend, Fusion & Degradation Behaviour PVC dry blends often have the tendency to exhibit greatly differing melt and degradation characteristics after undergoing comparatively small alterations in the recipe. This can lead to a variety of problems during processing such as eg: reduced impact strength or the colouring or degradation of the extrudate. The PolyLab System offers a quick and reliable method of examining these material characteristics. The aim of the test was to differentiate between two PVC compound formulations, which only differ with respect to 0.1% stabliser content. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: LR-17 Measurements on Selected (Semi) - Solids in a Wide Temperature Range Using New Solid Clamps The controlled test chamber (CTC) is a new temperature control module for the HAAKE MARS for measurements on polymer melts and (semi)-solids and combines state of the art technology with easy handling. For the CTC a unique solids clamp tool has been developed. The concept of the HAAKE MARS with the new CTC and some measurements results are shown. During rheological measurements on polymer melts high normal forces can be observed. These forces are valuable information but can also cause trouble because they might slightly change the measuring gap. Following that thought, compared to its predecessors like the HAAKE RheoStress 600, the HAAKE MARS has been given a different frame design. Apart from more space for sample handling or optional modules this H frame has all forces aligned in one plane and thus offers an approximately 10 times higher stiffness compared to the standard C frame. This make the HAAKE MARS the perfect instrument to measure polymer melts and semi-solids. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: V-220 HAAKE Mars CS/CR modular R&D rheometer info@rheologysolutions.com <14>

15 Application & Technical Articles Helpful Data for Tests with Extruder Sensors The tables in this report summarises the valuable data and provide a good starting point for new developments on new products. Most raw material manufacturers use the CAMPUS database platform for commercially available grades, also here are general hints for processing and the setup of an extruder are given. The overview focuses on the single screw extruders, for some polymers conical counter rotating twin-screw extruders (CTW) are recommended. Co rotating parallel twin-screw compounders (PTW) are indicated where recommended, but not discussed in detail. Temperature ranges apply, while the compounding process itself is far more complex. This laboratory report provides information obtained during laboratory testing and should be regarded as recommendations. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting reference no: LR-04 Excerpts from the two tables Material Ext. L/D Screws Feeder Special Screw Feed Type Compression Configuration Zone Ratio Coding LDPE CTW 25D 2:1, 3:1 Met v, i C HDPE CTW 25D 2:1, 3:1 Met v, i C,A PE UHMW SSE 25D 3:1 SSF - A PP SSE 25D 2:1, 3:1 Met - A Table 1a Helpful processing parameters from common polymers Extruder Type CTW = conical counter rotating twin screw SSE = single screw extruder L/D = length/diameter ratio Feeder Met = metering SSF = volumetric single screw feeder Special Screw Configuration i = intensive mixing v = venting Feed Cone Coding C = circulator coding (10-15ºC) A = air cooling (1-2 bar) Material TS1[ C] TS2[ C] TS3[ C] Die[ C] LDPE HDPE PE UHMW PP Table 1b: Helpful processing parameters of common polymers. Temperature profile along the extruder Measuring Coatings This paper was originally published in PPCJ May 2006, and this extract has been reprinted with permission from the journal. Written by Dr Fritz Soergel, Thermo Electron (Karlsruhe) GmbH, the paper describes the rheological characterisation of coatings in shear and extensional flow. A wide range of measurements with viscometers and rheometers is used to characterise the rheological properties of coatings such as inks, varnishes, dip coatings, paints, dispersions, paper coatings, printing inks, security pastes and powder coatings. This paper is intended to give a brief overview of which properties can be measured with which tests and which instrumentation is required. Besides the well-established shear flow testing in rotation, creep and oscillation, the benefits of extensional testing are discussed for viscoelastic fluids. In order to keep the quality of coatings on a high level, continuous quality control is required as well as sound knowledge of raw materials, processing steps, storage conditions and application procedures. Rheology plays a crucial role in each of the steps which a coating undergoes. After development of formulation, production starts with quality control of raw materials like binders, solvents, pigments, fillers and additives. For processing, the components require the ability of mixing, dispersing, pumping, stirring, homogenising and stabilising. A good coating shows stability during shelf life and transportation without sedimentation, flocculation, agglomeration and coagulation. Rheological measurements help to select proper dimensions of pipelines, pumps and stirring vessels as well as filling machines. A variety of application processes use high shear rates or high extensional rates eg painting, spraying, printing, dipping which is followed usually by gravity-driven steps for example by leveling in order to obtain a homogeneous film with good properties in texture, appearance and protection of the coated substrate. While stability during shelf life and properties like levelling or sagging are best characterised by a controlled stress (CS) measurement, the various shear rates of stirring, pumping, filling, and painting are well represented in controlled rate (CR) measurements. Creep testing is performed in CS mode. Gelation, cross linking and curing are best recorded with oscillatory measurements in controlled deformation (CD) mode while amplitude sweeps as well as frequency or time sweeps can be performed in CS as well as in CD oscillatory mode. In order to understand the extensional processes in printing and roll coating as well as in dies for filling, spraying or spray drying, the extensional properties require experimental determination. A full copy of this paper is available by quoting PPCJ May 2006 info@rheologysolutions.com <15>

16 Industry Applications for Building and Construction Industries Aggregation Definition: The formation of larger bodies by the joining of several-smaller ones, causing an increase in apparent volume fraction. The net result of aggregation can be increases in yield point and viscosity, and an increase in the propensity of the solids to settle. Determining the level of aggregation by measuring the viscosity and yield point of a construction material will provide valuable information on the processability of the material. The Schleibinger Viscomat NT rotational viscometer will provide information on the workability of a fine-grained building material such as cement pastes, mortar, fine concrete, and plaster and development of admixtures for mortar, concrete and SCC. For further information on the Rheology Solutions for Building & Construction Industries, request a copy of this Industry Information Kit Right: Schleibinger Viscomat NT rotational viscometer Industry Applications for Chemical and Allied Industries Substrate Definition: The material onto which a chemical or coating is applied. The mechanical strength of a substrate is important to the chemical and allied industries for production and processing parameters. Measuring the mechanical strength of a substrate requires tensile and compression testing. The Shimadzu range of Uniaxial Universal Testers is suitable for this application. For further information request a copy of the Rheology Solutions for Chemical & Allied Industries Industry Information Kit Left: Shimadzu AGS-J uniaxial universal tensile tester Industry Applications for Building and Construction Industries Shrinkage/ Expansion Definition: Shrinkage is the process or result of becoming less or smaller. Expansion is often caused by heat that is applied to a body, increasing the rate of vibration and the distance between the molecules and, hence, the space occupied by the body i.e. its volume increases. This increase in volume is not constant for all substances for any given rise in temperature, but is a specific property of each kind of substance. The Schleibinger Shrinkage/Expansion Unit is designed to measure the shrinkage or expansion of fluid building materials and also unstressed deformation of the sample. Measuring these properties is critical for proper design and construction using a variety of materials any of which may experience either shrinkage or expansion. For further information on the Rheology Solutions for Building & Construction Industries, request a copy of this Industry Information Kit Below: Schleibinger shrinkage/expansion unit info@rheologysolutions.com <16>

17 News & Views ALL INDUSTRIES POLYMER FOOD SURFACE COATINGS MINERAL MANUFACTURING CHEMICAL PHARMACEUTICAL BUILDING Laboratory Reports Recent Technical Activities at Rheology Solutions...18 Rheology Solutions On Show... Flow And Texture Equipment Demonstrations At FoodPro Contract Testing Services Materials Testing for Manufacturing and Industrial Applications...20 News Solutions Kits for Mineral Slurries, Surface Coatings, Food, and Polymer Industries...20 Service and After Sales Support Service Engineer, Richard Donaldson...18 New Program Customer Service & Support Program...45 Instrument and Equipment Maintenance Calibration & Service Contracts Available...45 New Product Range NESLAB Temperature Control Products...21 Industry Focused Solutions Focus Solutions for Mineral Slurries...22 New Series of Application Notes Tim s Top Tips - Rheology Solutions for the Food Industries...23 Workshop Optical Scanning for Industry Applications...24 Exhibition Review Ausplas 2005 Exhibition...25 Feature Story Formulation Science and Rheology in Product Development...26 Industry Solutions Solutions for Food Industries Product Selector Guide for Food Applications by Shear Rate/Viscosity Ranges...28 Common Food Industry Terminology...29 Common Coating Industry Terminology...29 Solutions for Surface Coatings Industries Product Selector Guide for Coatings Applications by Shear Rate/Viscosity Ranges...30 Solutions Kits New Series of Solutions Kits - Available end February Rheology Solutions Products & Services...20 Rheology Solutions Products For Pharmaceutical, Cosmetic & Allied Industries..33 Solutions for Mining Industries Product Selector Guide for Mining Industries...35 Common Mining Industry Terminology...36 Common Polymer Industry Terminology...36 Solutions for Polymer Industries Product Selector Guide for Polymer Industries...37 Company News New Information Now Available On-Line...40 Rheology Solutions Goes to KL, Malaysia...41 NEW Tip s for Mineral Industries...45 Feature Story Customer Satisfaction is Key to This Process...42 New Product HAAKE DynaMax 1200 & 1700 Dynamic Temperature Control Systems...43 Rheology Solutions Free sample testing offer to test extensional properties...25 Workshop FREE OPTICAL SCANNING WORKSHOP - Where You Can Run Your Own Samples & Obtain a Complete Optical Evaluation...31 Conference Overview Australian Society of Cosmetic Chemists ASCC Conference, Geelong, March Technical Information Industry Specific Materials Characterisation Dictionaries...38 Testing Services Instrument Evaluation & Contract Testing...39 Calibration & Service Contracts Available...45 info@rheologysolutions.com <17>

18 News Recent Technical Activities at Rheology Solutions Dr. Tim Kealy, Technical Manager Rheology Solutions is involved at all levels in the measurement and research of flow properties and rheometry. As a part of this commitment to the science, we have been involving ourselves in technical conferences, not only as an exhibitor, but also as technical participants. Following is a summary of the recent past and future conferences and the technical work papers that we have written. 27th Australasian Polymer Symposium (APS) 28 November 2 December 2004, Adelaide. We presented work examining the effects of multiple reprocessing for film grade HDPE. The work involved investigating consequences of reprocessing HDPE in a pilot twin-screw extruder (TSE) at different screw speeds, process temperatures and feed rates. The product from each TSE pass was considered by measuring the changes in the melt flow properties using a rheometer. The results showed interesting behaviour, indicating that all of the process variables play a part in the thermo-mechanical degradation of the HDPE, and degradation continues with consecutive TSE passes. The degradation can be followed using the cross-over point of the mechanical spectra (G and G ). It is hoped that the mean molecular weight (MW) and/or the molecular weight distribution (MWD) can be tracked using this technique since it has been shown in the past that changes in the crossover point for similar materials can be related to changes in the MW and MWD. Australian-Korean Rheology Conference July 2005, Cairns. At the Australian Korea Rheology conference, we will present the next steps in this work. We have measured the Melt Flow Index (MFI, the traditional industry technique for QC) of each of these materials (reprocessed HDPE) and compared its usefulness with the work conducted earlier using the high end rheometer and TSE. Initial results indicate that MFI, though a good QC measure, can not give good information regarding the MW and MWD of the HDPE. We are currently engaging in some collaborative work to verify changes in MW or MWD, as implied by our rheometric data, by using an independent technique (GPC). If we have this data to hand, we will present it also at the AKRC in Cairns. See the HAAKE MARS - Modular Advanced Rheometer System at the AKRC. SCAA/APMF Expom August 2005, Melbourne. In keeping with the theme of the meeting, The Coating Challenge 60 years and on., we will be presenting a paper outlining the advances in rheometry and rheological measurements and techniques for the coatings industries as they have occurred in the last six decades. This work will outline the progression of measurement techniques to the current state of the art, and how they have benefited the coatings industries. Service and After Sales Support Service Engineer, Richard Donaldson Richard Donaldson has been working with and associated with Rheology Solutions Pty Ltd for over 5 years and formally joined Rheology Solutions in January Although Richard was an integral part of our June 2004 Polymer Workshops and many of you would have met him them, we are now pleased to have secured Richard as part of our team in Victoria. Richard has a career background in engineering, electronics and computers and brings a wealth of practical experience and knowledge to this role. Richard is based in Bacchus Marsh, Victoria and his role will include supporting our customer base nationally, assisting with our workshop and conducting the service and repair work across our entire product range offered has been a busy year with many customers requesting annual contracts which has placed Richard at customer sites for 50% or more of his time for some months. Added to this, Richard had a three week overseas training course with our suppliers to update himself on the new product ranges now available. For all general service enquires, service@rheologysolutions.com Service Engineer, Richard Donaldson info@rheologysolutions.com <18>

19 Rheology Solutions On Show... Flow And Texture Equipment Demonstrations At FoodPro 2005 For QA/QC, R&D And Production Areas On Stand No: 6084 By Rheology Solutions Shimadzu Texture Analyser - EZ Test Rheology Solutions will display HAAKE viscometers, a Shimadzu texture analyser, and a Marimex in-line viscometer during FoodPro. These products are of key interest to QA/QC, R&D, & production areas within food processing, ingredient suppliers, and laboratory staff. Three of the four items on display will be shown to the Australian food industry for the first time at FoodPro. The products on display are: The HAAKE Viscotester 01 plus is a rotational viscometer with one button operation for quick viscosity tests (measuring principle: relative) HAAKE Viscometers from Thermo Electron Corporation. The Viscotester series of viscometers are specifically designed for fast batch analysis of viscosity for incoming goods. These viscometers will measure samples from thick to thin such as oils, pastes, creams etc. Information such as flow curves, yield points, time curves and temperature curves are available from these viscometers. This information provides important pointers for food performance, and are critical factors for processability and product quality. The HAAKE Viscotester 6 plus instrument is a classic rotational viscometer for the fast determination of viscosity as defined in ISO 2555 and many ASTM standards Shimadzu Texture Analyser. The EZ Test texture analyser is used to evaluate product quality and tests such as hardness alterations and strength evaluation are important for packaging materials. Data including a food products texture characteristics like masticability, smoothness and palatability are available from the texture analyser and offer a quantifiable result to measure finished product quality and consistency of quality (mouth feel). In recent years the application of numeric values to the sense of touch for materials and products has become very important. In particular, in the food industry, various evaluations are made for product quality assurance and the development of new products from raw materials through to the product packaging materials. The EZ Test texture analyser has two types of software (rheometer software and Win AGS Lite 2000). A wide selection of jigs open up a variety of applications such as product quality assurance evaluations by measuring hardness alterations and strength evaluation for product packaging and numerically expressing food product texture characteristics like masticability, smoothness, and palatability. info@rheologysolutions.com <19>

20 Contract Testing Services Materials Testing for Manufacturing and Industrial Applications Unit operations commonly encountered in today s industrial sectors include mass transfer operations such as pumping, mixing, extrusion, pouring and filling, as well as storage and final use. For liquids, optimising the efficiency of the processes and the quality of the final product invariably relies on the flow properties of the processed fluid. Energy consumption by pump or mixer motors, pressure drop in piping, the shape, stability, and quality of final products is dictated in large part by the rheological behaviour of the processed fluid. Fluid related issues like sedimentation, flotation, time related structural decay or build-up and in cases where a solid-like product eventuates, postsolidification issues like strength of compression and extension are rheology based phenomena. These phenomena depend on rheological parameters such as viscosity, visco-elasticity, creep and recovery, thixotropy and yield stress, and solid material properties such as behaviour under various loading conditions. Liquid extensional properties influence processes or phenomena such as pouring, filling, tack, misting etc, where stranding occurs, influencing time, quality or energy requirements. The Rheology Solutions applications laboratory has state of the art equipment, capable of measuring these parameters, and of providing interpretation of the results where necessary. Laboratory equipment includes sensitive, specialised, modern instrumentation and sensor systems, for measuring complex or difficult fluids such as those with low viscosity, or those with a solid phase, or highly elastic liquids. Extensional behaviour is important for many industries, and Rheology Solutions laboratory also has a state-of the-art extensional rheometer (the Haake CaBER 1 Capillary Breakup Extensional Rheometer) to measure these properties. Solids performance according to various international standards can also be monitored. Information such as shear viscosity curves, thixotropic behaviour, flow curves, apparent extensional viscosity and time to break-up of fluid strands may be obtained for interested clients. Additionally, of importance to industry, when scientifically assessing changes in flow behaviour due to temporal or ingredient issues, viscoelastic moduli as a function of either shear rate or strain can be assessed. Structural changes under very low shear (like in the case of storage, gravity settling, cure etc) or very high shear (pumping, mixing, filling etc) are possible using the advanced equipment and sensors available at the laboratory of Rheology Solutions. These measurements may be obtained as a function of temperature, concentration, or to monitor the effects of changes in modifier/ingredient concentration. With this information the scientist or engineer may change the process, or design new unit operations or products to maximise the potential benefits to be obtained from the physical properties of the processed fluid. Rheology Solutions is pleased to provide this information to interested parties, and to make our rheological expertise available. Our range of testing and interpretation services is further supported by customised workshops, training and seminars to cover the needs of individuals, businesses or industry sectors, covering introductory, intermediate or advanced theory and practice of rheology. This can be supplemented by application specific workshops. News Solutions Kits for Mineral Slurries, Surface Coatings, Food, and Polymer Industries Four industry specific solutions kits have been developed by Rheology Solutions and are available free to our customers on request. The concept of these solutions kits is to bring our experience and knowledge to assist our customers to improve their process and product performance through: Understanding your products Identifying process and production defects Monitoring and controlling processing parameters. Each industry is analysed according to the terms usually referred to when product or process performance is accessed for that specific industry. The industries (so far) that we have reviewed are Food, Surface Coating, Mineral Slurries and Polymer Industries. Copies of the industry specific solutions kits are available free on request. Rheology Solutions Products & Services Rheology Solutions offers a range of products for materials characterisation across, rheology, optical inspection, pilot scale mixing and extrusion, on-line viscosity measurements, texture analysis, tensile testing, temperature control, and surface tension for a variety of industry applications. Through their partner network and their own laboratory facility contract testing and/or instrument evaluation can be arranged. Interested in Instrument or Equipment Evaluation or Contract Testing? Contact Rheology Solutions. info@rheologysolutions.com <20>

21 New Product Range NESLAB Temperature Control Products Formerly independent companies, NESLAB and HAAKE have joined forces within the Thermo Electron Corporation to provide an extensive product portfolio to meet the temperature control requirements of laboratories, industries and many application specific manufacturing applications. Rheology Solutions Pty Ltd is pleased to be able to offer the NESLAB range of temperature control products to our Australian customers. The NESLAB range now available from Rheology Solutions includes: NESLAB RTE Series & EX Series of Bath Circulators ideal for cooling and heating below, at, or above ambient temperatures. RTE Series -40ºC to +200ºC EX Series +15ºC to +200ºC Typical applications - Lasers - Condensers - Reaction vessels - Calibration - Rotary evaporators - Analytical instrumentation - Gel electrophoresis NESLAB RTE 7 Bath Circulator NESLAB HX Series of Process Chillers a range of process chillers are available to meet specific applications with versatile and flexible configurations. HX 75, HX 150 & HX 300 Temperature range 5ºC to 35ºC Cooling capacity 2,000 W, 4,500 W & 10,000 W respectively Typical applications - Test equipment - Military applications - Lasers - NMR - X-ray - Mass spectrometer - Blister packaging - Semiconductors - Reactor vessels - MRI - CT - Diffusion and cryopumps HX 500, & HX 750 Temperature range 5ºC to 35ºC Cooling capacity 15,700 W, & 24,000 W respectively Typical applications - Sputtering - CMP - Test equipment - Laser engraving - Laser machining - MRI - CT - Linear accelerators - Printing - Injection moulding - Military applications - Reactor vessels NESLAB HX75 NESLAB CC Series of Immersion Coolers providing cooling to -90ºC CC Series -90ºC to +40ºC Typical laboratory applications - Vapor trapping - Freeze drying - Solvent trapping - Lyophilization - Freezing points - Impact testing - Shell freezing dry ice replacement CC Series of Immersion Coolers NESLAB Merlin Series Recirculating Chillers delivers a continuous supply of cooling capacity up to 5045 watts Temperature range 5ºC to 35ºC Typical applications - Lasers - Printing equipment - Reaction vessels - Condensers - Analytical instruments - Electron microscopes - Semiconductor manufacturing - Medical imaging equipment NESLAB Merlin Series NESLAB ULT Series Bath Circulators designed to achieve low temperatures and maintain excellent temperature stability for consistent results. Temperature range -90ºC to +10ºC Typical laboratory applications - Heat exchangers - Calibration - Cell freezing - Viscosity studies - Kinetic cooling - Cooling GC ovens - Petroleum studies - Cloud point / pour point NESLAB ULT Series info@rheologysolutions.com <21>

22 Industry Focused Solutions Focus on Solutions for Mineral Slurries Improve your process and product performance through understanding your materials characteristics identifying process and production challenges monitoring and controlling processing parameters. >> Yield Stress The minimum force required to initiate movement in a fluid. Measuring the yield point in the slurry or suspension using the HAAKE ViscoTester 550 with a vane sensor will provide valuable information about the force required to initiate movement of the slurry or suspension for start-up of rakes, impellers and so on. HAAKE ViscoTester 550 controlled rate viscometer The terms usually referred to when mineral slurry processes are assessed are diverse and include: aggregation angle of repose beach benefication communition dispersion flocculation foaming pipeline transport processability slimes slump slurry stratification suspension tailings viscosity modifier yield stress Material characterisation parameters are reliable pointers to determine mineral slurry parameters and are critical factors for processability. Measuring these parameters will improve process and performance within mineral slurries application areas. There are a range of instruments, equipment and measurements that can be used to assess the above industry terms and should be considered. Rheology Solutions offers material characterisation solutions to measure, monitor and provide reproducible data for quality control and production applications that will improve performance within the mineral slurries application areas. >> Foaming Occurs when gas is introduced into the material. A HAAKE CaBER rheometer will measure the extensional properties of the liquid and provide details on the longevity of the foam. This information is valuable in determining if a foam will be produced. The strength of the foam is related to its longevity and its ability to hold up particulate matter in the separation process. Adjustments may need to be instigated to enhance the production process by changing the modifier to either increase or reduce the occurrence of foaming. HAAKE CaBER extensional rheometer >> Viscosity Modifier Used to alter flow properties of mineral slurries. Determining the viscosity before and after addition of viscosity modifiers using a HAAKE RotoVisco 1 allows the engineer to optimise the flow properties of a slurry or suspension to increase productivity and maximise pumping efficiencies and volumes. HAAKE RotoVisco 1 controlled rate viscometer info@rheologysolutions.com <22>

23 >> Flocculation The artificial creation of solid aggregates to create clumps of high value minerals for separation from liquid. The HAAKE RheoStress 600 or HAAKE Mars enables measurement of the strength of a floc and/or the rate of flocculation so the engineer can determine the correct quantity of flocculant required. This minimises the loss of the valuable minerals and optimises flocculant usage. HAAKE RheoStress 600 controlled stress rheometer Processability Typically, processability is related to the amount of energy required to carry out the relevant unit operation. Determining the processability of mineral slurries can be achieved using a HAAKE PolyLab and RheoMix by providing information on torque, temperature and rpm inputs which relate directly to the processability of the materials being mixed or transported. HAAKE PolyLab with RheoMix pilot scale torque rheometer with instrumented mixer >> Pipeline Transport The process of moving slurries or pastes from one location to another by pumping the material through a pipe. Measuring on-line viscosity using a Marimex ViscoScope system will provide constant data monitoring in the pipe or tank so adjustments can be made during the process to maintain the best conditions for pumping. Marimex ViscoScope in-line viscometer >> Contact Rheology Solutions for product brochures, details on contract testing capabilities, and further information on how materials characterisation will assist mineral slurry applications to increase efficiency, and help eliminate process and production challenges. New Series of Application Notes Tim s Top Tips - Rheology Solutions for the Food Industries Often the food industry must overcome problems related to (and often dominated by) the flow properties of their product, though the relationship between these properties and production related issues are not always immediately apparent. It is the purpose of this series of articles "Rheology Solutions for the Food Industries", to help illuminate the issues faced by the industry, how they relate to the flow properties of the problem materials and how they can be successfully measured and controlled with a view to better processing. The series contains four application notes covering the explanation and evaluation of: Mouthfeel, Shelf Life, Processability and Cohesiveness. The notes focus on commonly encountered measurement issues and suggests solutions for solving these challenges. Each application note includes, working definitions, background and discussion comparing current testing procedures and methods and summaries the measuring techniques in a comparison table by method/instrument used. These notes are available free on request. info@rheologysolutions.com <23>

24 Workshop Optical Scanning for Industry Applications - Call for Expressions of Interest In June 2006 (working date), Rheology Solutions in conjunction with Optical Control Systems (OCS) are planning to run a series free half day application based demonstrations and workshops using fully operational equipment: Powder Tester PT2C, Pellet Scanner PS25C, Pellet Size Shape Distribution PSSD, and Wide Web Film Inspection System FSP600. The equipment for the workshops is a selection from the OCS product range and will provide attendees with the opportunity to optically assess powders, pellets and finished film products. Attendees are invited to bring their own product for testing and evaluation at the workshop. Prior discussion and completion of a sample testing form and supply of MSDS for each sample will be required. The workshops can be public or private (company specific) and each session will be tailored to meet the objectives of the participants. The workshop will provide suppliers and manufacturers of powder, pellets or film with the ability to: Run and test samples Evaluate equipment and instruments Update themselves on the state of the art optical technologies Review equipment for purchase or plan for future budgets Identify the best optical solution specific to their application or products Compare results from current inspection methods to optical scanning technology Justify investment in equipment - instrument purchase Identify new or improved QA or On-Line procedures and techniques Isolate defects and impurities to improve process and reduce rejects The OCS optical scanning equipment is suitable to test: all free flowing powders across polymer, pharmaceutical and food industries all pellets either natural or pigmented all transparent and opaque film Tim Kealy, Pat Griffin and Kaye Griffin from Rheology Solutions with Fatah Najaf of Optical Control Systems with the OCS PS-25C Pellet Scanner and OCS FSP-600 Wide Web Inspection System This free workshop will be of interest to masterbatch suppliers, manufacturers, polymer manufacturers, film manufacturers, raw material suppliers, and packaging manufacturers who are involved in food, pharmaceutical and the polymer industries. The workshop will focus on running the equipment and customer applications and is planned to run for half a day at the laboratory facility and training area of Rheology Solutions. Each workshop will be limited to 4 to 8 participants. The workshop would run over the course of 5+ working days in June Interested? Complete the details on the fax back form including your area of interest and details on potential samples or call us to discuss your requirements. A final timetable for the workshop will be developed based on the expressions of interest and firm details will be provided in April May Don t miss out on this great opportunity register your interest now! info@rheologysolutions.com <24>

25 Exhibition Review Ausplas 2005 Exhibition Rheology Solutions showcased a number of new products at the recent Ausplas 2005 exhibition which was held in Melbourne from September The exhibition appeared to have fewer than previous visitors during the 4 day exhibition; however, the number of visitors that attended the Rheology Solutions stand was the same as previous years despite the reduced number of attendees. A combination of current customers and new customers dropped by to see the new products that were operational and on show. Enquiries covered all the equipment on display as well as a number of enquiries across the entire product portfolio that we offer. As a summary, the enquiries fell into the following broad categories: Polymer Processing Equipment at 39.8% Optical Scanning Equipment at 20.5% Laboratory Materials Characterisation at 16.8% On-Line Viscosity & Rheology at 14.5% Contract Testing Services offered by Rheology Solutions at 8.4% The Optical Scanning Equipment from Optical Control Systems was of great interest to a number of customers, some of whom took up our offer to run their samples and then provide them with reports detailing the results from the Pellet Scanning and Pellet Size Shape & Distribution equipment. Mr Fatah Najaf who is a Director at Optical Control Systems attended and worked with Rheology Solutions during the exhibition demonstrating the equipment, discussing specific customer applications and challenges. It is always a great advantage to have the manufacturer in attendance during these major national exhibitions as they bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience across an array of applications and customers who use their equipment internationally. The diversity of the customer applications kept everyone active and on their toes fielding the enquiries (but no one ducked for cover) across the breath of products that are available for materials characterisation solutions for the polymer industries. During the times when there were no customers to talk with, there was time to relax and enjoy the company of a colleague. Four days at an exhibition is hard work - concrete floors, long days and lots of talking - the end result for Rheology Solutions was positive and our thanks go to all those that visited our stand, our suppliers who provided us with their equipment and special thanks to Optical Control Systems and Fatah for their support and commitment to this Australian exhibition. Rheology Solutions Free sample testing offer to test extensional properties Rheology Solutions is pleased to offer free sample testing on two product samples and provide a report detailing the extensional differences between the products. The sample testing will be conducted using a HAAKE CaBER 1 extensional rheometer. Measurements using the HAAKE CaBER 1 extensional rheometer will provide a quick insight into the material properties under an extensional deformation which occur, for example, during filling. The HAAKE CaBER is suitable for examining: Adhesives measurement of tackiness solvent loss or gain Associating polymers Biomaterials Surfactants Consumer goods filling of bottles time to break up solvent loss processability Food products - stringiness/strand formulation - time to break up - relaxation of doughs elastic instabilities Industrial resins relaxation time spectrum, constitutive modelling spinnability Sequence of a CaBER measurement Testing the extension properties before final production will identify products that are more likely to create a process or production problem and allow you to adjust the formula and eliminate the problem. This would improve your process and product performance and provide a new QA/QC procedural step prior to final production. Tim Kealy keeping on his toes whilst checking out the OCS PSSD Pellet Shape Size Distribution System with Fatah Najaf. For further information on the HAAKE CaBER 1 extensional rheometer or the free sample testing offer, contact Rheology Solutions Pty Ltd info@rheologysolutions.com <25>

26 Feature Story Formulation Science and Rheology in Product Development Brian W Young BY Consulting (Australia) Pty Ltd About the Author Brian has spent 40 years working in the agrifood industries in the formulation and technology fields. He established his consulting company in 2003 with the view to offering his expertise in the formulation sciences and new technologies on a consultancy basis. Introduction It is difficult to think of two more intrinsically coupled scientific disciplines than formulation science and rheology when considering the development of a product whatever the industry. Simplistically, the former is about the composition and characteristics of the product, the latter is about what happens to it when subjected to an applied force be it gravity, spreading, spraying, extruding or melting. In most cases the former significantly contributes to the latter while in cases where specific rheological properties are required, this will largely determine the necessary composition. Why is it then that there has been relatively little focus on the interaction of these disciplines in the context of product development or relevant academic courses available? Certainly there are university departments with a strong focus and commitment to rheology and its applications, but until recently there have been very few courses available that focus on formulation science. There is of course always the debate as to whether formulation chemistry is an art or a science. It is much easier to think of rheology as a science because one can apply nice theories and equations to the predicted and observed behaviour of a system. However in many cases real products are very complex mixtures and do not always comply with the idealised theories, so a strong element of practical knowledge and skill is also required. As they say in patent jargon.as will be apparent to those skilled in the art! The purpose of this article is to raise awareness about the significance of the interactions of these disciplines and to give some examples of the way in which they can be used to advantage, or equally the potential pitfalls of a lack of understanding. What roles do formulation science and rheology play in product development? Product development is a complex process and should be considered as a sequence of interacting steps crossing many disciplines. Ideally the whole sequence from conception to final use should be adequately understood and factored into formulation development as it may significantly alter the direction of development. Equally it is necessary to determine the driving forces operating in a commercial environment. It s one thing for the formulation chemist to say that he can produce a certain formulation, but does the commercial/marketing department want that or do they have their own requirements perceived or real? There may be situations where the whole process has to be effectively run in reverse with the formulation chemist required to meet specific characteristics that have been predetermined by the market. For example, let s consider the development of a new agrochemical product. We may have an active ingredient that has been shown to be effective against certain insects. The active is a crystalline solid in normal conditions, with a low water solubility and good solubility in some typical oils/solvents. It is important for the formulation chemist to understand how the product is intended to be used. If sprayed by ground equipment, for example on cotton, then an aqueous formulation may be fine; but if it is intended for aerial application (when conditions for very rapid evaporation exist) then it would be better to use a non-aqueous formulation. As may be imagined, the formulation requirements for these two situations would be very different. In this case, let s assume that an aqueous based formulation has been selected. It may then be decided to prepare a suspension concentrate or dispersion formulation as the product form. One then enters the whole world of dispersion technology, which requires consideration of dispersing and/or wetting agents, how the formulation will be milled, the required particle size distribution, the rheology and storage stability of the product, how it dilutes/disperses on addition to the spray-tank water, the behaviour of the spray droplets when they impact the leaf surface, how the droplets dry, the nature of the deposit and last but not least, how the particles of the active are picked up by the insect in order for it to be effective. To achieve the above can be a considerable challenge to the formulation chemist; but the marketing department may turn around and say that they must have either an emulsion concentrate system or a dispersible granule. Both are a far cry from a suspension concentrate! In a second example, let s consider the spraydrying process in the food industry. Again the whole process from initial formulation through to the final product needs to be considered. In much the same way, there are a number of interacting steps and formulation technology and the physical characteristics of the material play a significant role. The steps can be considered as the initial liquid properties, the atomisation process, the behaviour of the airborne spray cloud, the nature of the dried material and its final use. The formulation chemist has to have an understanding of the steps and the possible consequences of changes to the formulation on any one of these. If one considers rheology to be the behaviour of fluid materials under some form of applied shear, then it s not difficult to imagine that rheology can also be a significant factor in product development whether it s for paints, films, pharmaceuticals or the above examples. The rheological behaviour is primarily determined by the formulation composition/properties and the applied forces of a given situation; thus formulation and rheology are fundamentally linked. In much the same way as outlined above, the rheological properties are a consequence of the formulation, but their specific characteristics can be controlled by the formulation chemist or set to comply with the product/market requirements. With the extensive range of ingredients/components available to the formulator it is possible to select components - for example polymeric thickeners with a specific molecular weight range - to give a specific viscosity effect. However it is always important to check-out the claimed effect in the specific formulation concerned. There are clearly countless examples of the impact of rheology on product development, but as an example let s consider the case of a gelled food dessert. These used to be info@rheologysolutions.com <26>

27 relatively simple looking systems but they had to be stable, to set but not thicken/harden excessively over time, not show too much surface weeping or syneresis etc. Now, new products may be layered systems (that should not intersperse over time), have dispersed fruit pieces etc. Frequently such product concepts come from the marketing department but sometimes an accidental effect may be observed that has commercial opportunities, so the formulator should be alert to new opportunities and concepts as well! What roles do formulation chemistry and rheology play in solving process challenges? Apart from the multitude of factors touched on above, a further consideration is whether the planned formulation will behave satisfactorily through the processing requirements, or should the process be specifically designed to accommodate a particular formulation? As is often the case, what can be achieved in the lab cannot always be translated to a production process. Perhaps in this situation it is more the rheological parameters that play a significant role in that the processing equipment generates stresses and forces which interact with the selected formulation in a particular way favourably or unfavourably. If we focus in on the formulation, then significant factors in determining rheological behaviour become the composition, molecular and/or particle interactions, particle size and shape, viscosity and secondary viscosity effects such as extensional viscosity, and how all of these respond to the applied shear. From the processing perspective, are the shear forces and processes understood in relation to how they may impact on the fluid behaviour? In the spray drying example above, rheological properties are important in all of the stages outlined. The material has to be fluid enough to be pumped to the nozzle or atomiser. Depending on the nozzle design there may be significant shear force changes applied to the fluid as it passes through the internal passages of the nozzle. In such cases the extensional viscosity can be very significant as this parameter responds to the rate of change of shear rather than the shear itself. Many polymers and thickeners that are typically used to enhance physical stability can also exhibit thickening in cases of complex nozzle interactions, which can result in significant adverse changes to the atomisation - or even a failure to atomise. As the fluid exits the nozzle into the atmosphere there is a sudden relaxation of the applied shear, this may have a further effect on the droplet formation. During the drying of the droplet the internal rheology of the droplet will effect the circulation and evaporation which in turn will affect whether a crust is formed, and the final morphological form of the dried particle. This will affect the end-use properties of the spraydried product. It s not hard to imagine that in other applications, for example paints and coatings, that fluid flow, film formation and drying are intrinsically related to the rheological properties but that ultimately these are determined by the formulation composition. What roles do formulation chemistry and rheology play in meeting customer requirements? For fluid products, rheology can be an important factor in customer acceptance. In many industries there are specific requirements that have an impact on the user. Perhaps a classic example is for nondrip/splash paints, where the advent of paints that do not separate on standing and that can be applied with a minimum of mess has now become the norm. The problem of settlement during the storage of dispersed systems - such as with old fashioned oil-based paints - was certainly a frustration experienced by painters for many years. Settlement of individual pigment particles under the influence of gravity led to the classic claying of the product where a sticky, dense sediment layer built up at the bottom of the container and a clear top layer was formed that required extensive stirring to re-homogenise the system prior to use). Except for the case of micro-particulate systems (below say 0.5micron) which exhibit sufficient Brownian Motion to remain permanently suspended, any dispersion of particles in a fluid base is likely to demonstrate settlement on storage due to the action of gravity. Factors which affect the extent of settling include the particle size, shape and density, the fluid viscosity characteristics and any inter-particle interactions. In the above example, the advent of latex-based paints with particles of low specific gravity has also largely eliminated the settlement issue. Rheology becomes of fundamental importance in stabilising dispersed systems to give acceptable products, because it may be the key parameter in controlling or preventing settling. The establishment of an adequate yield value results in a structure that prevents or minimises the settlement of particles under static conditions as experienced when a product sits on a shelf but the structure is broken and the product becomes fluid again when shaken or stirred. The presence of a yield value is very different to just increasing the viscosity; this just slows down the inevitable process and may make the product unuseable. The establishment of an adequate yield value is also a common goal for agrochemical formulators, where the dispersed product may be stored for a year prior to use, yet it should be easily re-homogenised by shaking or stirring and be ready to dilute into the spray tank. The dilution into water is another interaction where rheology is of fundamental importance to acceptance. The product should disperse easily in the water and not form a glob that sinks to the bottom. In some industries the problem is avoided by a supplier simply putting the instruction shake vigorously before use on the container. How often do we see liquid medicines that have separated out into two distinct layers with such an instruction? Why can t they be formulated so as not to separate? As always, it all depends on the market and the situation. It s one thing to have to shake a 250ml medicine bottle, it s another to have to redisperse product in a 25litre drum! Conclusions In the above examples I have attempted to illustrate some of the issues and complexities surrounding the application of formulation science and rheology in product development. It should not be difficult for the reader to translate such examples into situations relevant to his/her own industry. Whether the reader is a research scientist or a product development manager the point is that we are dealing with complex, multidisciplinary situations and it is necessary to have an awareness of the bigger picture for the development of new products. In most cases this will require a team approach, rather than any individual covering all bases, and the establishment of working relationships with specialist groups could be a significant advantage in this respect. Brian W Young Director BY Consulting (Australia) Pty Ltd Phone: Mobile: byoung@byconsulting.com.au Website: Further Information? Contact BY Consulting and/or Rheology Solutions Pty Ltd to discuss your formulation and product development challenges. BY Consulting specialises in formulation science and novel technologies and Rheology Solutions specialises in materials characterisation and offers product solutions and full rheological contract testing laboratory facilities. info@rheologysolutions.com <27>

28 Solutions for Food Industries Product Selector Guide for Food Applications by Shear Rate/Viscosity Ranges This product selector guide identifies the product/s - equipment available from Rheology Solutions that will allow you to measure and monitor specific characteristics within food applications/products. The common food terms referenced are based on the terminology used in the food industries and relate industry parameters to product solutions. Food Common Terms Shelf Life Ribbing Die Swell Melt Fracture Build Cover Feet Spread Tails Adhesiveness Body Flow Chewy Brittleness Elastic Quality Cohesiveness Consistency Firm Getaway Hardness Crunchiness Kinesthetics Mealy Mouthfeel Softness Gum Quality Tenderness Workability Haptic Processability Equipment Map ViscoTester VT550 RotoVisco 1 RheoStress 1 RheoStress 600 CaBER 1 PolyLab / EuroLab / Prism RheoCap ViscoScope Measuring Shear Rate (s -1 ) Measuring Viscosity Range (mpa.s) NOTE: The PolyLab, EuroLab, and Prism are laboratory / pilot scale mixers and extruders and therefore exhibit the same range of shear rates which occur in full-scale processing. Therefore a shear range is not a relevent quantity for this equipment. The CaBER is an extensional rheometer and does not exert shear rates or stresses, but rather extensional ones. The ViscoScope continuously measures a single point viscosity in the pipe or tank at approximately 4s -1. info@rheologysolutions.com <28>

29 Common Food Industry Terminology Common Coating Industry Terminology INDUSTRY TERM SHEAR RATE INDUSTRY TERM SHEAR RATE Adhesiveness s -1 Bleed s -1 Blending s -1 Body s -1 Brushability s -1 Build s -1 Brittleness s -1 Chewy s -1 Cohesiveness s -1 Consistency s -1 Cover s -1 Crunchiness s -1 Die Swell <0.001 s -1 Elastic Quality s -1 Feet s -1 Firm s -1 Flop <0.001 s -1 Flow s -1 Getaway s -1 Gum Quality s -1 Haptic s -1 Hardness s -1 Kinesthetics s -1 Levelling s -1 Line gluing s -1 Mealy s -1 Melt Fracture <0.001 s -1 Misting s -1 Mix s -1 Mouthfeel s -1 Processability < s -1 Resolution s -1 Ribbing <0.001 s -1 Sag s -1 Shelf Life <0.001 s -1 Slump s -1 Slur s -1 Soft Dot s -1 Softness s -1 Spatter s -1 Spread s -1 Tack <0.001 s -1 Tails s -1 Tenderness s -1 Wetting s -1 Workability s -1 EQUIPMENT NAME TYPE EQUIPMENT NAME TYPE ViscoTester VT550 Rotational Viscometer CaBER 1 Extensional Rheometer RheoCap Capillary Rheometer PolyLab/EuroLab/PRISM Mixers, Extruders RotoVisco 1 ViscoScope RheoStress Rotational Viscometer On-line Torsional Motion Rheometer Controlled Stress Rheometers EzTest AGS-J Texture Analyser (Universal Uniaxial testing Machine) Universal (Uniaxial) Testing Machine ViscoTester, RotoVisco, RheoStress, CaBER, RheoCap and PolyLab are HAAKE brand names of Thermo Electron Corporation (Karlsruhe, Germany) GmbH. EuroLab and PRISM are brand names of Thermo Electron Corporation (Stone). EZ Test is a brand name of the Shimadzu (Oceania) Corporation. ViscoScope torsional motion viscometers is a brand name of Marimex Industries Corporation. AGS-J is a brand name of the Shimadzu (Oceania) Corporation. info@rheologysolutions.com <29>

30 Solutions for Surface Coatings Industries Product Selector Guide for Coatings Applications by Shear Rate/Viscosity Ranges This product selector guide identifies the product/s - equipment available from Rheology Solutions that will allow you to measure and monitor specific characteristics within coatings applications/products. The common coating terms referenced are based on the terminology used in the coating industries and relate industry parameters to product solutions. Coatings Common Terms Flow / Levelling Brushing Sag Slur Tack Shelf Life Flop Bleed Build Cover Spread Slum Tails Mix Blending Brushability Ribbing Feet Workability Misting Soft Dot Line Gluing Spatter Resolution Wetting Equipment Map ViscoTester VT550 RotoVisco 1 RheoStress 1 RheoStress 600 CaBER 1 PolyLab / EuroLab / Prism RheoCap ViscoScope Measuring Shear Rate (s -1 ) Measuring Viscosity Range (mpa.s) NOTE: The PolyLab, EuroLab, and Prism are laboratory / pilot scale mixers and extruders and therefore exhibit the same range of shear rates which occur in full-scale processing. Therefore a shear range is not a relevent quantity for this equipment. The CaBER is an extensional rheometer and does not exert shear rates or stresses, but rather extensional ones. The ViscoScope continuously measures a single point viscosity in the pipe or tank at approximately 4s -1. info@rheologysolutions.com <30>

31 Workshop FREE OPTICAL SCANNING WORKSHOP... Where You Can Run Your Own Samples & Obtain A Complete Optical Evaluation Dates: 3rd to 7th July 2006 Location: Rheology Solutions Pty Ltd Hillside Street Bacchus Marsh Victoria 3340 Times: Morning Sessions &/or Afternoon Sessions The workshop will be hands-on demonstrations and trials using fully operational equipment including: OCS Pellet Shape Size Distribution Unit - PSSD OCS Pellet Scanner PS25-C The scope of the Optical Scanning Workshop is: 1/2 day workshop covering both instruments 5-6 people attending each workshop with the ability to tailor this to a private company session which can include your customers or suppliers, or an open public session The workshop will focus on optical scanning looking at size and shape distribution of pellets or granules either transparent or nontransparent with the PSSD, and quantitative assessment of granules or pellets. The workshops will be run by Mr Fatah Najaf, Director, Optical Control Systems and Dr Tim Kealy, Technical Manager, Rheology Solutions. Who Should Attend? QA/QC, R&D, and Production Personnel within the Food, Pharmaceutical & or Polymer Industries who test, supply, process or manufacture: Free flowing powders Pellets either natural or pigmented Plus, anyone with an interest in optical scanning technology Interested? Call us on (03) to discuss your optical scanning interest areas, samples for testing and available times for the workshop. Pellet-Scan-System PS25C (Colour Camera) Optical Image Recording for Quality Control Powder Test PT2C Size Class Bar Chart PSSD - Pellet Shape and Size Distribution System Pellet Distribution Graph Pellet Analyser PA66 - Combined PSSD & PS25C info@rheologysolutions.com <31>

32 Conference Overview Australian Society of Cosmetic Chemists ASCC Conference, Geelong, March 2006 Rheology Solutions was pleased to provide a 90 minute seminar at the recent ASCC Conference which was attended by over 50 interested individuals from companies within the cosmetic industry. The seminar was titled... Rheology for Cosmetics and Pharmaceutical Manufacture and included a balance of theory and applied examples across the life cycle of a product from raw materials through to consumer use. These included: Mixing, Pouring & Filling The section covering mixing and pumping introduced the concepts of viscosity and elasticity. Ease of pouring/filling introduced concepts of yield stress and extensional properties (extensional properties influence the stringiness of a material). Commonly encountered rheology terms were defined and explained in the context of typical shear rates and test data for some cosmetic and pharmaceutical products such as: soap, tooth paste and gel tooth paste, gums and oils, and shampoos. Storage Stability Storage stability is often a function of storage time which affects the amount of settling and/or phase separation and is determined by viscosity, density and yield stress. Temperature also has an impact on the storage stability of a product and samples can be tested to predict the stability and effect of temperature on the sample. An example of a freeze-thaw test to determine the behaviour of a stable and an unstable sample were also presented and discussed. Quality Control QC criteria include tests such as flow curve, yield stress, amplitude sweep and frequency sweep. Results for each test were presented using real data from hair gel. Dispensing/Application Dispensing with a roller may involve problems with stranding, misting and spatter which are determined by extensional properties and elastic properties of the sample. When a product is squeezed from a tube, problems can occur with edge and line definition and spreading are governed by thixotropy, elasticity, yield stress and extensional properties. Squeezing the product from a tube is determined by viscosity and viscoelastic properties, and surface finish (ribbing etc) is measured by extensional properties and viscoelasticity. Stranding, Misting, Spatter - Extensional Properties, Elasticity Application was broken into two parts, spread by rubbing and application by atomised spray or drops. Each of these two parts detailed the dominant rheological properties and the relevant measurements required to determine a products dispensing and application profile. Edge and line definition, spreading Thixotropy, Elasticity, Yield Stress, Extensional properties Texture The measurement criteria to determine texture perception for fluids differs from that of semi solids. For fluids, skin feel includes tack, greasiness, stiffness, stickiness etc and are governed by viscosity, elasticity, extensional properties, and yield stress. With semi solids, skin feel relates to cohesiveness, adhesiveness and hardness. These relative properties are governed by viscosity, elasticity, yield stress; solid mechanical properties under extensional or compressive loading (rheological parameters), are commonly used to scientifically measure the texture of solid materials. A copy of the presentation Rheology for Cosmetics and Pharmaceutical Manufacture is available as a PowerPoint interactive file on request. Additionally, a solutions kit titled Rheology Solutions for Pharmaceutical, Cosmetic & Allied Industries is available on request. Solutions Kits New Series of Solutions Kits - Available February 2006 A series of Solutions Kits for specific industries are available from Rheology Solutions. Each Solution Kit contains an overview of the process challenges for that industry from a materials characterisation perspective, a list of technical literature available, Rheology Solutions for the industry, and includes a company overview and details on their application laboratory. Three new industry Solutions Kits will be available in February for the following industries: Construction & Building Materials Pharmaceutical, Cosmetics, Natural and Health Products Chemical & General Manufacturing Already in the series: Solutions for the Food Industry Solutions for the Polymer Industry Solutions for the Surface Coatings Industry Solutions for the Mineral Slurries Industry Register now to receive your copy of the Rheology Solutions for the industry of interest. info@rheologysolutions.com <32>

33 Solutions for Pharma, Cosmetic & Allied Industries Rheology Solutions Products For Pharmaceutical, Cosmetic & Allied Industries Improve your process and product performance through: understanding your products identifying process and production defects monitoring and controlling processing parameters. The terms usually referred to when performance is assessed for the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and allied industries are diverse and include: adhesiveness is the force required to remove gels, creams etc which have bonded to the hands during application or handling or to the roof of the mouth during swallowing. Measurement of this solid rheological (mechanical) property using the Shimadzu EZ Test texture analyser will provide indication about the textural properties and assist in achieving an understanding of the products adhesive properties to meet customer expectations. adhesiveness mouthfeel processability tack consistency pipeline transport shelf life yield stress Rheological parameters are reliable pointers for the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and allied industries product performance and are critical factors for processability and product quality. Measuring these parameters will improve process and product performance within the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and allied industries. There are a range of instruments and measurements that can be used to quantify rheology related challenges some of which may be described by the above terminology. Rheology Solutions offer material characterisation solutions to measure, monitor and provide reproducible data for quality control, development and production applications that will improve performance within the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and allied industries Contact Rheology Solutions for product brochures and further information on how material characterisation will assist pharmaceutical, cosmetic and allied industries to increase efficiency, eliminate process and product challenges across Research & Development, Production and Quality Control. Shimadzu EZ Test Texture Analyser consistency is the combination of all the senses from stimulation of the mechanical and tactile receptors in the region of the mouth and skin and varies with the texture of the product. For liquid products that are swallowed, the impression of consistency is dictated in part by viscoelastic properties, also this is the case for semi-solid products that are applied to the skin. A HAAKE MARS CS rheometer can measure viscoelasticity for characterisation of the consistency of a product. HAAKE MARS modular controlled stress rheometer mouthfeel is the experience from all the senses of the skin in the mouth during and after swallowing. The viscoelastic properties of a product that is swallowed such as a cough medicine, impact the length of time that flavour and sensation of the product remains in the mouth and assists in coating the lining of the mouth and throat. Measuring the viscoelastic properties of products requires a controlled stress rheometer. The HAAKE RheoStress 1 is a controlled stress rheometer and will measure the viscoelastic properties of liquids and assist in developing and maintaining the right product mouthfeel. HAAKE RheoStress 1 controlled stress rheometer with cone heater info@rheologysolutions.com <33>

34 pipeline transport The process of moving pastes, creams and liquids from one location to another by pumping the material through a pipe. Measuring on-line viscosity using a Marimex ViscoScope in-line torsional viscometer will provide constant data monitoring in the pipe or tank so adjustments can be made during the process to maintain the best conditions for pumping. The HAAKE RotoVisco is a controlled rate viscometer and is suitable for measuring the key rheological pointers for shelf life on both liquid and solid samples. temperature control Process and testing requires constant and accurate temperature control to ensure consistent test conditions are maintained throughout. Temperature deviations and fluctuations will influence the process and/or the test results. Choosing the correct temperature control product is as critical the test itself. A range of recirculating heating and cooling bath circulators, process chillers, immersion coolers, recirculating chillers, and Ultra Low Temperature bath circulators is available to meet most chemical industry applications across QA, QC, R&D and production from HAAKE and NESLAB. Marimex ViscoScope in-line viscometer processability Typically, processability is related to the amount of energy required to carry out the relevant unit operation. Determining the processability of a cream, gel, liquid or powder can be achieved using a HAAKE PolyLab and RheoMix by providing information on torque, temperature and rpm inputs which relate directly to the processability of the materials being mixed or transported. HAAKE RotoVisco 1 with control panel CR Viscometer tack is the property of cohesion between particles (stickiness), and the separation force needed for the transfer of the coating from the substrate as in the case of a coated tablet. Measuring the extensional viscosity will provide data to identify stickiness during coating applications. Extensional properties can be measured with the HAAKE CaBER extensional rheometer and provide valuable information on the suitability of the cream or other liquid to be filled into bottles, sachets or tubes. Understanding the extensional properties of a product is also important to eliminate strings during the filling process to maximise filling line production speed. HAAKE Phoenix Heating Circulator P2-B15 model yield stress The minimum force required to initiate movement in a fluid. Measuring the yield point in suspension such as in a liquid, cream or gel using the HAAKE ViscoTester 550 with a vane sensor will provide valuable information about the force required to initiate movement of the suspension etc. for initiating the filling process and so on. HAAKE PolyLab OS with RheoMix pilot scale torque rheometer with instrumented mixer shelf life is the maximum time interval that a material may be kept in a usable condition under correct storage conditions. Elements that impact shelf life include settling or phase separation and are governed by rheological factors. Measurement of yield point will indicate if settling has occurred and measuring shear viscosity at different shear rates will provide an indication of conditions under which the phase separation may occur. HAAKE CaBER extensional rheometer HAAKE ViscoTester 550 controlled rate viscometer with vane sensor. info@rheologysolutions.com <34>

35 Solutions for Mining Industries Product Selector Guide for Mining Industries This product selector guide identifies the product/s - equipment available from Rheology Solutions that will allow you to measure and monitor specific characteristics within Mining industries. The common Mining terms referenced are based on the terminology used in the Mining industries and relate industry parameters to product solutions. Mineral Slurries Common Terms Equipment Matrix Aggregation Angle of Repose Beach Benefication Communition Dispersion Flocculation Foaming Pipeline Transport Processability Stratification Slump Yield Stress ViscoTester VT550 RotoVisco 1 RheoStress 1 RheoStress CaBER 1 PolyLab Rheomix ViscoScope Measurement Range (Shear Rate s -1 ) Measurement Viscosity Range (mpa.s) NOTE: The PolyLab RheoMix is a laboratory / pilot scale mixer and extruder and therefore exhibits the same range of shear rates which occurs in fullscale processing. Therefore a shear range is not a relevant quantity for this equipment. The CaBER is an extensional rheometer and does not exert shear rates or shear stresses, but rather extensional ones. The ViscoScope continuously measures a single point viscosity in the pipe or tank at approximately 4s -1. info@rheologysolutions.com <35>

36 Common Mining Industry Terminology Common Polymer Industry Terminology INDUSTRY TERM SHEAR RATE INDUSTRY TERM SHEAR RATE Aggregation s -1 Angle of Repose s -1 Beach s -1 Benefication s -1 Communition s -1 Dispersion s -1 Floculation s -1 Foaming s -1 Pipeline Transport s -1 Processability < s -1 Slump s -1 Stratification s -1 Yield Stress s -1 Back Pressure s -1 Blending s -1 Calendaring s -1 Co-Extrsuion < s -1 Compounding <10 2 ->10 3 s -1 Compression Zone <10 1 s -1 at Barrel Wall >10 3 s -1 at the Die Die Lip Build Up >10v s -1 Die Swell <10-3 s -1 Encapsulation 10 3 s -1 Extrusion <10 1 s -1 at Barrel Wall >10 3 s -1 at the Die Flow s -1 EQUIPMENT NAME ViscoTester VT550 RheoCap RotoVisco 1 ViscoScope RheoStress CaBER 1 PolyLab/EuroLab/PRISM PolyLab RheoMix AGS-J TYPE Rotational Viscometer Capillary Rheometer Rotational Viscometer On-line Torsional Motion Rheometer Controlled Stress Rheometers Extensional Rheometer Mixers, Extruders Torque Rheometer with instrumented mixer Universal (Uniaxial) Testing Machine Foaming s -1 Foaming <1 s -1 Cure >10 3 s -1 at the Die Gate <10 1 ->10 3 s -1 Glass Transition s -1 Injection Rate s -1 Interfacial Stability >10v s -1 Levelling s -1 Melt Flow Index 9x x10 1 s -1 Melt Fracture <10-3 s -1 Mix s -1 Pre-Mix s -1 Processability < s -1 Reactive Extrusion <10 1 s -1 Single Screw >10 3 s -1 at the Die Reaction Injection s -1 ViscoTester, RotoVisco, RheoStress, CaBER, RheoCap and PolyLab RheoMix are HAAKE brand names of Thermo Electron Corporation (Karlsruhe, Germany) GmbH. EuroLab is a PRISM brand name of Thermo Electron Corporation. ViscoScope torsional motion viscometers is a brand name of Marimex Industries Corporation. AGS-J universal (uniaxial) testing machine is a brand name of Shimadzu Oceana. Ribbing <10-3 s -1 Sharkskin >10 2 Pa Shelf Life <10-4 s -1 Starve Feeding s -1 Surging s -1 Tack <10-3 s -1 info@rheologysolutions.com <36>

37 Solutions for Polymer Industries Product Selector Guide for Polymer Industries This product selector guide identifies the product/s - equipment available from Rheology Solutions that will allow you to measure and monitor specific characteristics within Polymer industries. The common Polymer terms referenced are based on the terminology used in the Polymer industries and relate industry parameters to product solutions. Polymer Common Terms Shelf Life Ribbing Die Swell Melt Fracture Equipment Matrix Tack Reactive Injection Blending Co-extrusion Injection Rate Compounding Melt Flow Index Calendaring Encapulation Flow Leveling Die Lip Build-Up Mix / Premixing Compression Zone Interfacial Instability Slarve Feeding Al Barrel Wall Compression Zone Al the Die Extrusion Al Barrel Wall Reactive Extrusion Single Screw Foaming Processability Surging Gale Workability ViscoTester VT550 RotoVisco 1 RheoStress 1 RheoStress 600 Back Pressure Extrusion Al the Die Reactive Extrusion Al the Die Foaming CaBER 1 PolyLab / EuroLab / Prism RheoCap ViscoScope Measurement Range (Shear Rate S -1 ) Measurement Range (Viscosity mpas) NOTE: The HAAKE PolyLab and PRISM EuroLab are laboratory / pilot scale mixers and extruders and therefore exhibit the same range of shear rates which occur in full-scale processing. Therefore a shear range is not a relevant quantity for this equipment. The HAAKE CaBER is an extensional rheometer and does not exert shear rates or stresses, but rather extensional ones. The shear rate range of rotational instruments (HAAKE ViscoTester, RotoVisco, RheoStress) can be expanded using alternative sensor geometries. The ViscoScope continuously measures a single point viscosity in the pipe or tank at approximately 4s -1. info@rheologysolutions.com <37>

38 Technical Information Industry Specific Materials Characterisation Dictionaries Rheology Solutions has created industry specific dictionaries as a general guide to the terminology in major manufacturing areas, such as: Pharmaceutical, Cosmetic & Allied Industries Chemical & Allied Industries Building & Construction Industries Food Industries Surface Coating Industries Polymer Industries Mining Industries The intended use of these dictionaries is to relate industry parameters to rheology solutions and provide governing properties and instrument solutions from the product portfolio of Rheology Solutions. The individual industry specific materials characterisation dictionaries are available on request from Rheology Solutions Chemical & Allied Industries: Materials Characterisation Dictionary excerpts follows: Industry Term: Process: Definition: Measurement Information: RS Instrument: Industry Term: Process: Definition: Measurement Information: RS Instrument: Industry Term: Process: Definition: Measurement Information: RS Instrument: Blending/ Mixing. Production. Combining materials to give the desired physical or chemical properties. Blending efficiency relies upon the viscosity of the materials at high shear. Matching viscosities often allows better blending. Viscoelastic properties also play a significant role in blending efficiency. An excellent way to assess the potential for blending different materials is using an instrumented extruder. HAAKE ViscoTester 550, HAAKE RotoVisco, HAAKE RheoStress, HAAKE MARS, HAAKE PolyLab & RheoMex, PRISM Extruder, Marimex ViscoScope. Flow. Pumping/Cure. Measure of the ability of a liquid to be moved (by gravity or other force). The rate of flow of a liquid is governed by its properties in shear, including the yield point at low shear, measured with a CR viscometer, and by the viscoelastic properties of the liquid, as measured on a frequency sweep by a CS rheometer. CR measurements can often be made in-line. HAAKE ViscoTester 550, HAAKE RotoVisco, HAAKE RheoStress, HAAKE MARS, Marimex ViscoScope. Levelling. Cure. The degree of flow for a wet film can after application to remove irregular marks. Flow properties at low shear dominate the possibilities for levelling, these properties are measured using yield point and flow loop data, on a CR viscometer. Viscoelastic properties also play a part in levelling, they are measured using a frequency sweep on a CS rheometer. HAAKE ViscoTester 550, HAAKE RotoVisco, HAAKE RheoStress, HAAKE MARS. Industry Term: Process: Definition: Measurement Information: RS Instrument: Industry Term: Process: Definition: Measurement Information: RS Instrument: Line Gluing. Application. A continuous strip of glue applied from a narrow nozzle. Extensional properties influence flow from a narrow nozzle, measured with an extensional rheometer. Line definition is dominated by viscosity at low shear and yield stress, and viscoelastic properties influence the ability of the fluid to flow. HAAKE CaBER 1, HAAKE ViscoTester 550, HAAKE RotoVisco, HAAKE RheoStress, HAAKE MARS, Marimex ViscoScope. Pipeline Transport. Production. The transfer of material from one location to another using a pump and pipeline. The ease of transfer of the material is usually dictated by both the yield stress and by its viscosity. On-line viscosity measurements are possible. Yield stress is measured using the vane technique and a CR viscometer and the viscosity of the material can be measured using a flow curve on a CR viscometer. HAAKE ViscoTester 550, HAAKE RotoVisco, Marimex ViscoScope, Schleibinger Viscomat NT. info@rheologysolutions.com <38>

39 Industry Term: Process: Definition: Measurement Information: RS Instrument: Processability. Production. Related to the amount of energy required to perform the relevant production steps on a material. Depending on the process, small scale machines (mixers etc) can be used to estimate (through their relative torque, temperature and rpm inputs) the relative processability of different materials. Direct measurement of viscoelastic properties, eg frequency or temperature sweeps, using a CS rheometer and of the behaviour in shear using flow curves from a CR viscometer - can all provide valuable information for predicting the processability of a given material. HAAKE ViscoTester 550, HAAKE RotoVisco, HAAKE RheoStress, HAAKE MARS, HAAKE PolyLab RheoMix, Marimex ViscoScope, Schleibinger Viscomat NT, Schleibinger Concrete Tester BT2. Industry Term: Stratification. Process: Production (pumping). Definition: Phase separation in the pipe where the solid fraction tends to separate and concentrate in the pipe, flowing in layers, usually with the liquid phase flowing more quickly above it. Particle size and density dictate stratification. Measurement The transport properties of yield stress and fluid viscosity can be used to reduce Information: stratification. Yield stress is measured using the vane technique and a CR viscometer and the viscosity of the material is measured using a flow curve on a CR viscometer. RS Instrument: HAAKE RotoVisco, HAAKE ViscoTester 550. Industry Term: Process: Definition: Measurement Information: RS Instrument: Substrate. Application. The material onto which a coating is applied. The mechanical strength of a substrate can be measured using tensile and compressive tests. Shimadzu Universal Tester. Industry Term: Yield Stress. Process: Production. Definition: The yield stress is the minimum force required to initiate movement in a fluid, (for example for pumping or raking). Measurement Usually depends on the solids loading in the slurry or suspension and the Information: interaction between them. The presence of viscosity modifiers in the slurry can also effect yield point. Measured using the vane technique and a CR viscometer. RS Instrument: HAAKE RotoVisco, HAAKE ViscoTester 550. Testing Services Instrument Evaluation & Contract Testing Interested in instrument or equipment evaluation or contract testing? Contact Rheology Solutions to discuss your requirements. Rheology Solutions offers a range of services for the equipment and instruments we sell for materials characterisation across: Rheology Optical inspection Pilot scale mixing and extrusion On-line viscosity Texture analysis Tensile testing Temperature control In the laboratory at Rheology Solutions, or through their partner network, contract testing and/or instrument evaluation can be conducted. Notes: ViscoTester 550 and RotoVisco are controlled rate viscometers, RheoStress is a controlled stress rheometer, MARS is a high end modular controlled stress rheometer and CaBER is an extensional rheometer all of which are HAAKE brand names of Thermo Electron Corporation (Karlsruhe, Germany) GmbH. ViscoScope is a torsional motion viscometer and is the brand name of Marimex Industries Corporation. PolyLab is a torque rheometer, and RheoMix is a module (for the PolyLab), an instrumented mixer which is a HAAKE brand name of Thermo Electron Corporation (Karlsruhe, Germany) GmbH. Viscomat NT is a controlled viscometer, and Concrete Tester BT2 is as compact viscometer both designed specifically for building and construction industries and the brand name of Schleibinger Gerate GmbH. Disclaimer The information contained in this dictionary is not intended for direct use as a tool for process development. It is a guide only. This document remains the property of Rheology Solutions Pty Ltd, and may not be reproduced or altered in any way without the written permission of the owners. Rheology Solutions Pty Ltd 2006 Dr Tim Kealy connecting a sensor on the HAAKE MARS Modular R&D Controlled Stress Rheometer before running samples info@rheologysolutions.com <39>

40 Company News New Information Now Available On-Line Rheology Solutions has completed a major website upgrade as part of their ongoing commitment to providing information and education on rheology and materials characterisation to their customers. The most recent updates to the website include: Interactive Industry Specific Dictionaries Four industry dictionaries covering food, polymer, surface coatings and minerals are available for viewing on-line. These interactive dictionaries provide a comparison between common industry terms such as; flow and levelling, blending, misting etc and an equipment matrix to identify the correct instrument to characterise a material for each specific industry term. The comparison has been developed to show the shear rate (s -1 ) and/or viscosity (mpa.s) range for each term and identifies the appropriate instrument solution which is linked to the full product specifications on the website. Visit and follow the link from the front page. Rheology Solutions Industry Tips Tim s Top Tips Often industry must overcome problems related to and often dominated by the flow properties of their product, through the relationship between these properties and production related issues are not always immediately apparent. It is the purpose of this series of articles, to help illuminate the issues faced by the industry, how they relate to the flow properties of the problem materials and how they can be successfully measured and controlled with a view to better processing. These notes focus on commonly encountered measurement issues and suggest solutions for solving these challenges. Each tip includes: working definitions, background and discussion comparing current testing procedures and methods and summarises the measuring techniques in a comparison table by method/instrument. Three industries are included currently for online viewing, and each contain four application notes covering the explanation and evaluation of: Tim s Top Tips for Food Industries Mouthfeel Shelf Life Processability Cohesiveness Tim s Top Tips Surface Coatings Flow & Levelling Misting Mixing & Blending Shelf Life Tim s Top Tips Polymer Compounding Processability Shark Skin Die Swell Hard copies of these tips are available by completing either the on-line request form or the information request form enclosed. Visit and follow the link from the front page. Industry Solutions Kits A series of Solutions Kits for specific industries are available now to view on-line. Each Solution Kit contains an overview of the process challenges for that industry from a materials characterisation perspective, a list of technical literature available and Rheology Solutions products for the industry. The industry Solutions Kits that can be viewed on line are, Food; Polymer; Surface Coatings; Mineral Slurries; Construction & Building Materials; Pharmaceutical, Cosmetics & Allied Industries; and Chemical & General Manufacturing. Hard copies of the Solution Kits are available by completing either the on-line request form or the information request form enclosed. Visit and follow the link from the front page. info@rheologysolutions.com <40>

41 Company News Rheology Solutions Goes to KL, Malaysia Rheology Solutions and KnowledgeCom presented a workshop for the food industry: Improving of food texture, processing and shelf life using rheology, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, May, There is a good deal of interest being generated in Malaysia, especially by the local food manufacturers in the rheology of foods. As a result KnowledgeCom (KCom) Management, approached Rheology Solutions with a view to a collaborative workshop. KCom was responsible for marketing and facilitating the workshop, in Kuala Lumpur, and Rheology Solutions was responsible for the course content and delivery. The event was held over two days at the JW Marriott Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, with a dozen food professionals Engineers, Chemists and Food Scientists in attendance. The attendees came from a cross section of the diverse Malaysian food manufacturing sector, including edible oils, confectionary, cocoa and dough-based products. Understanding the rheology of foods is of crucial importance for the whole lifecycle of a food product for product development, during the process, to assess product stability during storage, for Quality Control (QC) and for the final consumption of the product. Rheology can give an excellent indication of what might be the consequences of different processing scenarios or ingredient mixtures on the structure of the food for all of these lifecycle phases. Many foods have delicate structures that can be adversely affected by pumping, mixing or pouring. On occasion these structures do not fully recover, even after prolonged periods at rest, resulting in a below specification product. Rheological measurements enable us to assess the structure of materials and as a result the impact of changes in process or storage parameters, as well as the impact of changes in the formulation of the products. Of course, as (or more) important than processing and storage considerations is the consumers impression of the product. If the texture is incorrect or inconsistent then Some of the attendees and presenter at the rheology workshop in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Dr Tim Kealy, Technical Manager, Rheology Solutions (middle, first row) conducted the two day seminar. customers will be unhappy, and will move to more reliable products or those with superior flavour or mouthfeel. Again, rheology has a significant impact in this element of the lifecycle of a food product. Firstly, rheological properties have been shown to influence the mouthfeel of a wide variety of foods and beverages, both solid and liquid, because the internal structure is one of the dominant characteristics determining the mouthfeel of food. In addition, flavour release has been found to be influenced by rheological properties. Of course, there are other factors influencing both texture and flavour, due to the complex interaction between all of the senses in and around the mouth, including touch, taste, smell and so on. More and more, consumers are demanding extra functionality from foods, for example digestion-friendly bacteria in yogurt, low-fat alternatives for high fat products etc. These added functionalities usually require a change in the ingredients of the products, and even small amounts of a new ingredient, or a small change in the amount of an existing ingredient can have a large impact on processing, storage, texture and taste of a product. So, intelligent food design must involve some rheological measurements and understanding to ensure success. Without understanding the consequences of changes in the process, ingredients, storage conditions and so on, we cannot hope to reliably manufacture a food product to meet with the full approval of the consumer. The workshop consisted of explanations and examples of how rheological techniques can be applied through the lifecycle of a product from conception through to processing, storage, QC and final consumption. Along the way, introductions to and explanations of the technical jargon and concepts encountered in rheology were made, like viscosity, yield stress, viscoelasticity, extensional properties of liquids and semi-solids, and uniaxial testing for solid and semi-solid materials. The concepts were illustrated using real examples and data from the food industries. The sessions were interactive with excellent input from the attendees regarding their particular situations, processes and problems. There were regular group sessions requiring the attendees to form small teams to complete tasks (similar to those encountered in reality) as diverse as calculation of the pressure drop in a pipe for a non-newtonian material to the correct selection of an appropriate sensor system or instrument for a given set of measurement conditions and requirements. In general the group preformed very well in all the tasks and this aspect of the workshop was quite enjoyable and permitted the application of some of the principles learned in the course. If you are interested in discussing either a public or private industry specific seminar or workshop covering the theoretical and practical applications of rheology, contact Rheology Solutions. info@rheologysolutions.com <41>

42 Feature Story Customer Satisfaction is Key to This Process Reprinted with permission from the May 2006 issue of Modern Plastics Worldwide. By Robert Colvin The ability to assure customers of its film quality has helped Spanish flexible packaging processor Envases del Valles (EDV) Coex keep ahead of its competition. OCS Sales Manager Oliver Hissman (left) and EDV Technical Director Daniel Tudola Material handling system connected with 13 silos permits easy granule distribution to EDV s extrusion lines Clients such as Danone, Kraft, Nestlé, Heinz, Oscar Mayer, and Ferrero today expect their vendors to check quality before delivery, rather than have their own employees perform the task. That led EDV to install optical inspection systems on its five cast-film lines. These produce modified-atmosphere packaging film in up to seven layers, generally polyethylene/pet/evoh combinations, or long-life, multilayer polypropylene film for thermoforming packages that can offer one-to one-and-a-half-year freshness. "Our customers didn't ask us to buy a particular system: they just wanted a solution to problems of gels and black specs in their end product, which was affecting packaging equipment, printing, and package appearance," says Andrés Carol, EDV Production Director. The 160-employee processor, based in Llinars de Vallés, near Barcelona, is a leading producer of coextruded food packaging films with a turnover of Euro 36 million from processing plants in Spain and Australia from which EDV exports globally. Carol says regardless of how well you process or how good your operators are, from time to time films will have problem gels, black specs, fish eyes, holes, streaks, dust or dirt, insects, scratches, or other optical distortions that are all unacceptable to finicky customers. EDV solved the problem by installing web EDV packaging s plastics baby food container for Nestle France is microwavable, lightweight and durable. It claimed a Gold Award in last year s DuPont Packaging Awards inspection systems from German producer Optical Control Systems (OCS; Witten), first on one line in 2002 and the others in EDV uses the quality assurance it gains from such systems as a selling point with its customers, says Carol. "You can't expect an operator to work a shift and constantly keep his eye on quality of the melt coming out of the die. However, the inspection units are impartial and insensitive to being tired at the end of a shift, having to check something else down the line, or wanting to take a break," he says. EDV decided on film inspection because it feared losing business, especially one customer that required confirmation that EDV s coextruded film met its standards. The customer wanted a record of product quality, which online inspection provides. Carol admits operators initially were skeptical about inspection systems but says now they rely on and trust them. Oliver Hissmann, OCS Sales Manager, says an optical inspection system can't solve film defects, but it can locate them so a processor can cut out the offending section or simply label and document where, for example, a gel shower occurs so that a thermoformed can simply let that section run through its equipment without forming and start forming again once good film comes off a roll. Such systems also reduce reaction time by alerting an operator immediately of problems, giving him the chance to adjust extrusion pressure or other settings; clean the die lip; or change a filter. This, says Carol, saves the company money by eliminating scrap. EDV's Technical Director Daniel Tudela says it can be difficult to determine payback time for such a system. "The important thing for us was to reassure our customers of the product quality they source. You can't put a monetary value on that," he says. "The worst-case situation for us would be a Euro 50,000 loss > continued on page 45 info@rheologysolutions.com <42>

43 Andres Carol EDV Production Director > continued from page 11 because of black specs [where] a customer simply rejects an entire shipment if a problem is found in one roll. We would have to replace each roll of sheet-time lost for us in production and the customer's loss as well, and there is a chance that future business with that customer could be in jeopardy." Tudela says such a loss could spread to other customers since they tend to talk among themselves. EDV has set the most demanding tolerance allowed by one of its customers as its standard for all its products. Types and sizes of defects are programmed into the control unit, which learns and remembers errors as they occur. New Product HAAKE DynaMax 1200 & 1700 Dynamic Temperature Control Systems Designed to respond rapidly to dynamic temperature changes Newington, NH May 15, 2006 Thermo Electron Corporation, an industry leading producer of analytical and process instrumentation, announced today the introduction of the HAAKE DynaMax temperature control system for critical laboratory and pilot applications. DynaMax units dissipate heat from exothermic, chemical reactions much faster than other products in their class and were developed to provide high performance and safety with greater ease of use and lower maintenance requirements. The HAAKE DynaMax platform incorporates next-generation technology that withstands the most stringent laboratory requirements. In addition to fast cooling and heating rates, units can maintain precise temperatures over a wide temperature range. We took speed and accuracy to a new level when we designed the HAAKE DynaMax platform, said Scott Merrow, Product Marketing Manager for Thermo Electron. The platform is designed to meet a variety of demands in the laboratory environment, and the first units are ideal for cooling jacketed reactors and large rotary evaporators. The units are adaptable, dynamic and extremely fast while incorporating simple operating features, easy serviceability and a high safety standard. Specific benefits of the DynaMax platform include: Extremely fast temperature cooling and heating Precise temperature stability High heating and cooling capacities Interfaces for external control Ease of operation Wide temperature ranges Specific applications of the DynaMax temperature control system include: Jacketed reactors Large rotary evaporators Reaction calorimetry Fermentation Cooling analytical equipment With over 75 years of experience in the industry, Thermo Electron has a proven record of success in the production of temperature control systems, including its HAAKE and NESLAB lines. The HAAKE DynaMax platform expands on this expertise with the highest levels of speed, performance, and adaptability. Setup and calibration of the web inspection systems in 2004, which included upgrading the original unit and software changes, took five days including mounting frames. Carol says only weekly cleaning of lamps and camera housings is necessary and this is integrated into general maintenance downtime. Because EDV runs both pigmented and clear films at different times on the same extrusion lines, the company opted for dual-purpose inspection cameras set at different angles. Carol says the investment has saved EDV substantial time and money. "We don't regret it one bit." info@rheologysolutions.com <43>

44 Specifications HAAKE DynaMax 1200 HAAKE DynaMax 1700 System Performance Temperature Range -40 to 150 C -45 to 150 C Cooling Capacity at 20 K (50 Hz / 60 Hz) 1.2 kw 1.7 kw Cooling Capacity at 0 K (50 Hz / 60 Hz) 900 W 1.25 kw Cooling Capacity at -20 K (50 Hz / 60 Hz) 250 W 550 W Cooling Capacity at -40 K (50 Hz / 60 Hz) 150 W Heating Capacity (230 V - 50 Hz / 208 V - 60 Hz) 2 kw / 1.6 kw 2 kw / 1.6 kw Temperature stability +/ K +/ K Pump Performance (with silicon oil) Maximum Pump Pressure (bar) 1,2 1,2 Maximum Flow Rate 20 l/min 20 l/min Pump Performance (with water) Maximum Pump Pressure (bar) 1,5 1,5 Maximum Flow Rate 25 l/min 25 l/min Electrical Performance Power Requirements 230 V / 50 Hz - 1 phase 230 V / 50 Hz - 1 phase Time to Temperature Pumping Capacity Flow Rate Specifications obtained at sea level using nominal operating voltage, 25 C operating temperature, at 20 C ambient, using a fluid with a specific heat of 0.6. Other fluids, fluid temperatures, ambient temperatures, altitudes or operating voltages will impact the system s performance. Pump performance results were obtained with no restriction on the return to the system. Dynamic Heat Load Suppression 208 V / 60 Hz - 1 phase 208 V / 60 Hz - 1 phase Maximum Current 16 A 16 A Communication RS232, RS485 RS232, RS485 Display 128 x 64 pixel 128 x 64 pixel Supply Temperature C Time (Minutes) Pressure Bar 2,0 1,5 1,0 0,5 PSI A B A: Water B: SIL 180 LPM GPM HAAKE DynaMax Dynamic Temperature Control Systems Specifications HAAKE HAAKE DynaMax DynaMax General Information Footprint 70 x 49 x x 49 x 70 (H x W x D cm) Ambient Temperature 5 to 40 C 5 to 40 C Range Fluid Connections Refrigerant R404A R404A Compliance CE, NRTL CE, NRTL certified certified (UL & CSA) (UL & CSA) System Weight 95 kg 100 kg Warranty 2 years / 2 years / 10 K hours 10 K hours K/min +/ 0.02 K 20 K/min 50 T e mperature ( C ) / 0.04 K Supply line temperature Mixing valve outlet temperature Temperature control set point: internal mode 1.71 K/min +/ 0.05 K time (s) Dynamic Heat Load Suppression (DHLS) - New DHLS technology features and cold storage tank and a patented mixing valve that will rapidly dissipate heat during exothermic reactions. In the event that your application limits are exceeded, the system rapidly injects fluid from the cold storage tank - bringing the system back within your application limits, saving time and protecting your system from damage. Thermo Electron reserves the right to change specifications without notice. HAAKE DynaMax on show at ACHEMA info@rheologysolutions.com <44>

45 Instrument and Equipment Maintenance Calibration & Service Contracts Available Annual calibration and service contracts are available for all products currently sold by Rheology Solutions Pty Ltd. For details on the service and calibration capabilities we can provide you, please contact us and provide details of the instrument: brand, model and serial number. Send an to with detailed product information plus your full contact details. We will get back to you with an overview of our recommendations and details of the services available. New Program Customer Service & Support Program Additionally, as part of our ongoing commitment to our customers and to improve the level of service and support we offer we are working on developing a customer service and satisfaction system that will allow us to continue to improve our service and support levels. If you are interested in providing comments or would like to discuss any area of service or support with us, please do so. We look forward to your input and feedback. For all customer support and service comments kayegriffin@rheologysolutions.com Company News NEW Tip s for Mineral Industries The series of Tim s Top Tips has been expanded to now include three Tip s on: How to measure thixotropy How to measure yield stress How to measure flow and viscosity curves These tips are available as printed hard copies free on request. These new Tips have a different theme - they provide details on how to measure each of the rheological parameters, the measurement techniques and pitfalls of each technique, a summary plus a dictionary cover the working definition for technical terms. Yield Stress Background and Discussion Yield stress has an impact on the mining industry in a variety of ways. In pumping and mixing at start-up, it must be overcome so that the impellers can turn. In pipeline transport yield stress influences the velocity profile of the material, and under some circumstances can cause the material to flow as a solid plug carried by a lubricating liquid layer at the wall where shear stresses are high. The yield stress of a material dictates whether or not a solid fraction will settle to the bottom of a tank, pipe or other container, and also whether gaseous materials can rise through it. Disposal of mining waste is an important issue and the yield stress influences the slope of beaches in disposal areas, the ability of high solids pastes to be compressed and to flow after disposal and so on. Thixotropy Background and Discussion Thixotropy is a relative measurement, as such depends on the experimental conditions and technique used to measure it. There are several such techniques, the simplest being modified flow curves, or constant shear rate or shear stress measurements. A more complicated, but perhaps more intuitively understood method is the shear and recovery method. In order to attain repeatability the most appropriate technique should be selected and the sample handling and experimental procedures defined fully. These should be unchanged for all tests, so that thixotropy for different materials can be properly compared. Thixotropy is a relative measure of the extent and speed of recovery of the internal structure of a material during and after shear. It is useful because it allows an estimate of the effects of agitation, pumping etc for prolonged periods, and also the effects of ceasing the agitation etc (i.e. how quickly the structure will rebuild, and how difficult it will be to restart the process as a result). Flow and Viscosity Curves Background and Discussion A flow curve is used to define the interdependency of the shear rate and shear stress for a material. To generate a flow curve either a range of shear rates or of shear stresses can be imposed on the material, and the other of the pair the response of the material is measured. A viscosity curve shows the viscosity of a material at each shear rate from the flow curve. Flow and viscosity curves can be presented either on logarithmic or linear axes. They describe the flow behaviours at a variety of shear rates, so that pump, pipe, impeller, etc sizing can be correctly achieved. They are also important because they define the type of flow behaviour one can expect from a material Newtonian, pseudoplastic (shear thinning), dilatant (shear thickening) etc. info@rheologysolutions.com <45>

46 Product News & Industry Applications ALL INDUSTRIES POLYMER FOOD SURFACE COATINGS MINERAL MANUFACTURING CHEMICAL PHARMACEUTICAL BUILDING Product Focus HAAKE MARS Modular Advanced Rheometer System...47 HAAKE Phoenix II Circulating Baths for External Temperature Control...48 Rheology Solutions On Show...On-Line Viscometer Demo At FoodPro & Ausplas...49 New Agency Building and construction materials testing systems from Schleibinger...50 Rheology Solutions On Show...Rheology Solutions Highlighting Five New Products to the Australian Polymer Industry at Ausplas HAAKE PolyLab OS Torque Rheometer Open System for Material Testing & Processing...53 Temperature Control Application Fogging Testing Equipment...57 New Product NEW Extra Long (XL) Series Twin Screw Compounders PRISM Eurolab...57 New Product Micro Injection Moulding Machine HAAKE MiniJet...58 Optical Control Systems - Pellet Analyser PA Optical Control Systems - Wide Web Inspection System...61 HAAKE PolyLab Blown Film Die...74 Product Reviews HAAKE Rotational Viscometer for Mineral Slurries HAAKE VT550 Viscometer the Industry Choice for Mineral Slurries & Suspensions...50 HAAKE Temperature Control...60 Optical Scanning...63 Shimadzu Universal Uniaxial Tensile Testing Range...64 Sample Testing Unit...65 Powder Testing System...65 QC Rheometer...65 Ultra Low Refrigerated Bath Circulators...75 Product News Product News New Twin-Screw Compounder...70 Product Accessories Sensor Systems for HAAKE Mars...71 Product Accessories Sensor Systems for HAAKE Viscotester VT Product News Film Surface Analyser...73 Product Accessories Extrusion Equipment HAAKE POSTEXtrusion Equipment for the HAAKE PolyLab System...74 Product Applications Temperature Control for Viscometers and Rheometers..75 Industry Applications New Product Application Micro Rheology Compounder for Pharmaceuticals HAAKE Pharma MiniLab...55 Product Application Eliminate Misting & Spatter in Printing and Coating Applications...56 The HAAKE CaBER Product Review for Polymer Industries Production and Quality Control...66 Product Review for Temperature Control Production and Quality Control...67 Industry Application Concrete & Building Industry...69 info@rheologysolutions.com <46>

47 Product Focus HAAKE MARS Modular Advanced Rheometer System Inaugural Australian Display at the Australian Korean Rheology Conference July st time shown in Australia Visit us at Stand No.1 The modular R&D controlled stress rheometer platform features a design that enables the system to adapt quickly and flexibly to the requirements of different applications and tests. The HAAKE MARS offers: Interchangeable temperature control units - Liquid temperature controlled cylinder system (-40ºC* to +200ºC) - Liquid temperature controlled cone & plate system (-80ºC* to + 350ºC) - Electrically heated cylinder system (30ºC to +300ºC **) - Electrically heated cone & plate system (-80ºC* to +500ºC) - Peltier controlled cone & plate system (-60ºC* to +185ºC) - Closed temperature chamber (-150ºC to +600ºC) * depending on the temperature control unit used ** using suitable measuring geometries Integrated web server for remote monitoring CR, CS, CD mode in rotation and CS and CD in oscillation Axial force measurement during rotation and during axial movement in tension and compression Temperature control units ensure reliable operation at temperatures from -150 C to 600 C. Special measurement equipment can be integrated including: pressure cells up to 400 bar UV cell for measuring UV-hardened materials an optical module for the synchronous analysis of rheological properties and the microscopic structure of a sample A spectrum of applications can be covered from an extensive range of measurement geometries: coaxial cylinders, plates and cones, as well as disposable and customised versions. HAAKE MARS Modular Controlled Stress R&D Rheometer with oven module. The HAAKE MARS features: Hybrid temperature control combining the benefits of convection and radiation for high heating and cooling rates Clamshell design for easy access and good thermal stability in the chamber Modularity offers medium temperature (-70ºC to +600ºC) and low temperature (-150ºC to +600ºC) configurations Oven option with nitrogen cooling Easy updates and upgrades Hoses under vacuum for low temperature option (-150ºC) Two oven observation windows Specifications Max Min Angular resolution (μrad) Rotational speed CR-mode (min -1 ) 1500* Rotational speed CS-mode (min -1 ) x 10-7 Torque (Nm) x 10-8 Torque resolution (Nm) <1 x 10-9 Frequency (Hz) x 10-5 Multiwave frequency range (Hz) Normal force (N) ± Normal force resolutions * Optional high shear (4000min -1 ) info@rheologysolutions.com <47>

48 Product Feature HAAKE Phoenix II Circulating Baths for external temperature control The HAAKE Phoenix II systems are designed for external temperature control and manufactured for applications that do not allow direct product contact. Used in combination with a Pt sensor, the circulators ensure high temperature accuracy of 0.01ºC for external applications within a temperature range of -90ºC to +280ºC. cooling capacities up to 5,000 watts heating capacities up to 6,000 watts Real Temperature Adjustment (RTA) assures the temperature on the display is the temperature you measure Industry Applications General the Phoenix II are used to maintain temperature of sample during viscosity measurements Chemical Industry Reaction calorimetry benefits from the fast reaction of the Phoenix 11 to temperature changes in the reaction vessel and improves the safety and performance of the process. Petrochemicals The Phoenix II is suitable to use for Cloud Point determination according to DIN, ASTM & ISO to the Freezing Point determination of aviation fuels. Biopharma Industry Strict control of the fermentor temperature is essential to achieve the highest yield. Mammalian cell culturing over days is risky without high precision temperature control. Harvesting via molecular filtration using tap water to prevent the denaturation of enzymes is costly and controlled. Precise process control is required in all these examples and achieved with the Phoenix II circulators. Pharmaceutical Industry HAAKE heating and refrigerated circulating baths provide precise external temperature control for jacketed reactors ranging in size from 500 ml to 50 litres. These circulators can handle exothermic swings HAAKE Phoenix Circulator Screen in temperature as well as provide fast and controlled ramp times. Food & Beverage The refractive index of a sugar solution changes with temperature while its solid content remains the same, so temperature is one of the single most important factors influencing accurate refractometer readings and is one of the largest sources of error in measurement. Precise temperature control is therefore of utmost importance for obtaining an accurate refraction index measurement Cosmetics Filling systems for lipstick or eyeliners benefit from the fast temperature reaction from the Phoenix II circulator units. They can be operated in the laboratory as well as in the filling process the multiple language screen provides total accessibility to all staff. HAAKE Phoenix Highlights Large monitor with plain text display and Fault Identification System (FIS) FuzzyStar control with neural adaptation Powerful pressure and suction pump Display resolution of 0.01 C Up to 10 ramp programs 4 savable fixed temperatures Real Temperature Adjustment (RTA) External Temperature Control (ETC) 3-point calibration function info@rheologysolutions.com <48>

49 Rheology Solutions On Show... On-Line Viscometer Demo At FoodPro & Ausplas Marimex On-Line Torsional Viscometer. The in-line viscometer measures viscosity of a liquid continually and precisely in-line. During FoodPro and Ausplas, Rheology Solutions will run a live demonstration of the Marimex ViscoScope. The demonstration will provide a read out of viscosity and temperature on the digital display. The system data can be fed to the PLC within the production process and by monitoring viscosity and temperature in-line, any out of specification product is identified and the process can then be adjusted accordingly. This system can be used within pumping, mixing and storage stages for raw materials and finished products to consistently measure and report on viscosity and temperature changes. The Marimex Industries ViscoScope Systems measure the dynamic viscosity of liquids continually and precisely in-line. The ViscoScope system consists of a rugged sensor and associated electronics, which has been designed for process environments. The sensor has high resistance against foreign influences and can be applied in many industries including chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical and food industries. Dependent on the application requirements one or two Pt100 temperature measurement devices will be used within the sensor. The first Pt100 is built into the sensor probe itself and measures the process temperature at the same location, at which the viscosity is being measured. A second Pt100 is used in higher temperature applications to measure the coil temperature. Besides internal monitoring and analysis of the health of the sensor, the second Pt100 can be used for temperature control of the coils, providing consistent performance of the sensor at changing high process temperatures. The systems are factory calibrated with NIST traceable, shear independent calibration oils. Customer calibration is not required. Start-up of the system is accomplished in a few simple steps, including an automatic zero procedure, which can be initiated from the front panel, a Pocket PC or remotely. Maintenance free operation of the ViscoScope system provides low cost of ownership. The sensors are approved for hazardous areas. LIVE DEMO During FoodPro & Ausplas 2005 Marimex On-Line Viscometer ViscoScope. Register to attend FoodPro 2005 on line at info@rheologysolutions.com <49>

50 New Agency Building and construction materials testing systems from Schleibinger Rheology Solutions Pty Ltd is pleased to announce the exclusive Australian distribution of the Schleibinger Gerate GmbH range of construction materials testing systems. The Schleibinger range further extends the range of products and services tailored specifically to the materials characterisation of construction and building materials. The Schleibinger product range now available in Australia includes: Viskomat NT: A rotational viscometer for testing the workability and rheological behaviour of cement paste and mortar. Concrete Tester - BT2: A compact viscometer for testing the workability of fresh self compacting and highperformance concrete. CDFCIF -Freeze/Thaw-Tester: A system for testing the freeze/thaw resistance of concrete. Shrinkage Cone: A laser based system for non-contact measurement of the early shrinkage of pastes (up to several weeks), mortar and concrete. Shrinkage/Expansion Units: For measuring the long-term shrinkage and expansion of mortar and concrete. Thin-Layer Shrinkage Laser Measurement System: For measuring the shrinkage of thin layers. The Viskomat NT is a versatile rotational viscometer for determining the workability of fine-grained building materials such as cement paste, mortar, fine concrete, plaster etc. with a maximum particle size of 2 mm. Information available includes: flow curves and rheological parameters temperature dependent workability properties stiffening behaviour as a function of time and stirring speed effects of concrete admixtures and mineral blending agents on workability The viskomat NT is a true speed controlled viscometer driven by a high precision synchron motor. Each rotation is resolved within steps. It allows ramping from rpm to 200 rpm in both directions to record flow curves and yield points. The torque up to ±250 Nmm is measured by a special transducer. Viskomat NT Rotational Rheometer Product Review - HAAKE Rotational Viscometer for Mineral Slurries HAAKE VT550 Viscometer - the industry choice for mineral slurries & suspensions The HAAKE Viscotester model VT550 viscometer is suitable for viscosity measurements of particular suspensions using standard sensors to provide relative or absolute results which are highly reproducible. The HAAKE VT550 viscometer: Provides the data to allow accurate calculations for pumping slurries and suspensions Can be operated manually by the key pad or PC controlled Measures yield points using Controlled Deformation (CD) mode Measures inhomogeneous materials with particles in mm size Records flow curves automatically to monitor the flow behaviour of a liquid or paste Has interchangeable rotors to extend the measuring range and application Can be upgraded to a coaxial- or cone and plate viscometer The HAAKE VT550 viscometer is supplied as a package to meet the requirements of viscosity measurements of construction materials. It is an industry standard for high quality viscosity measurements. It is the most sturdy and professional instrument and offers a wide range of sensors to suit numerous applications. The HAAKE VT550 provides results on viscosity and yield point which allows you to: Correctly size pumps Minimise wear in pipes & fittings Identify start-up energy requirements for pumping Predict the longevity of hydraulic transport equipment Design better disposal systems HAAKE VT550 with vane rotor info@rheologysolutions.com <50>

51 Rheology Solutions On Show... Rheology Solutions Highlighting Five New Products To The Australian Polymer Industry At Ausplas 2005 September provides Rheology Solutions with a unique opportunity to show five new products to the plastics and rubber industry for the first time in Australia at Ausplas. These products are optical scanning equipment, on-line viscometer, micro-injection moulding machine, on-line rheometer and a modular R&D rheometer. Rheology Solutions specialises in material characterisation solutions and is pleased to bring this large number of new products and systems to the Polymer Industry. The Rheology Solutions stand will have operational equipment to demonstrate the many features and functions of the instruments. The equipment that will be displayed during Ausplas are: Wide Web Inspection System FSP600 from Optical Control Systems Pellet Scanning System (with colour camera) PS-25C from Optical Control Systems On-Line viscometer ViscoScope from Marimex Corporation - see page 3 On-Line (squeeze flow) Rheometer HAAKE Piezo Axial Vibrator (PAV) Rheometer from Thermo Electron Modular R&D Controlled Stress Rheometer HAAKE MARS from Thermo Electron Micro Twin Screw Compounder HAAKE MiniLab from Thermo Electron Corporation Micro Injection Moulding Machine HAAKE MiniJet from Thermo Electron Corporation Universal Tensile Tester AGS-J from Shimadzu The OCS Wide Web Inspection System will be shown for the first time in Australia on the Rheology Solutions stand. This system is a modular inspection system, which facilitates automatic inspection of fast running, broad plastic sheeting, and sheeting in glass and wood, paper, metal and other materials. A 100% scan is continuously made on the surfaces, and defects (such as gelling, fisheyes, burns, black spots, holes, scratches and folds) are located and simultaneously recorded. FSP600 is a modular surface inspection system for use in production. The production quality of the material to be inspected is assessed optoelectronically. The measurement data are stored in an inspection report so that later analysis is possible at any time. The modular concept permits the use of several cameras working in parallel so that optimum adaptation can be achieved for every problem. A system is dimensioned as a function of the production speed, the inspection width and the inspection accuracy (resolution) so that complete inspection of the entire web width is ensured. In addition to the mere recognition and classification of defects, the system can also be used for analysis, recording, archiving and documentation purposes. Every defect detected is transferred with the defect image to the measurement protocol together with its feature vector (position, size, shape...). The system can be modified exactly to suit the respective requirements using the comprehensive software packages. Fields of application for the FSP600 wide web inspection system include: Films (transparent, translucent, opaque...), Sheets, Coated web material, Industrial textiles, Paper and Non woven materials. 1st time shown in Australia Visit us at Ausplas Stand No.1 In addition to the staff from Rheology Solutions, Mr Fatah Najaf, Sales & Marketing Director of Optical Control Systems (OCS) will attend Ausplas and be available for discussions with customers. OCS is a world leader in the supply of customised and complete solutions in the fields of digital image processing, optical measurement and automation. Both the Wide Web Inspection System and the Pellet Scanning System from OCS will be operational during Ausplas. OCS FSP600 Wide Web Inspection System - Screen Shot of Defects info@rheologysolutions.com <51>

52 The OCS Pellet Scanning System (with colour camera) will be demonstrated and available to run customer samples during the exhibition. This system was developed for the qualitative and quantitative assessment of granules. The pellet scanner is suitable for both laboratory and on-line inspections. The pellets can be submitted as samples or they can be withdrawn from the production line by creating a bypass. The pellet scanner detects contamination and foreign particles (based on a different colour) from the pure uncontaminated material. Colour classes can be defined with the teaching tool. 1st time shown in Australia Visit us at Ausplas Stand No.1 HAAKE PAV Squeeze Flow Rheometer provides continuous information on viscoelastic properties OCS Pellet Scanning System PS-25C with colour camera For the first time in Australia, the HAAKE MiniJet - Micro Injection Moulding Machine from Thermo Electron Corporation will be shown. The MiniJet is a piston injection moulding machine and provides efficient sample preparation for testing mechanical and measuring rheological properties. HAAKE MiniJet Micro Injection Moulding Machine When used in conjunction with the HAAKE MiniLab micro compounder, the HAAKE MiniJet is an ideal tool for compounding and sample preparation. Featuring a unique slit backflow channel, the HAAKE MiniLab processes small quantities of material and performs viscosity measurements. Specimens can then be created and utilised for mechanical and rheological evaluation. The HAAKE Piezo Axial Vibrator (PAV) Rheometer is an on-line squeeze flow rheometer and will be shown for the first time in Australia at Ausplas. The system can operate up to 200ºC for polymer melts either in the extruder (pressure port) or in the die. The rheometer provides continuous information on the viscoelastic properties of the liquid so that the necessary action can be taken to keep the product within specification. The HAAKE MARS Modular R&D Controlled Stress Rheometer (see product focus on page 6) and the HAAKE MiniLab micro twin-screw compounder from Thermo Electron Corporation will also be on display. The MiniLab is a micro compounder with conical twin-screws, which offer a short and very defined dwell time. The unit is scaled down to micro-size and is perfect for material science and development. The MiniLab enables compounding and rheological measurement with a micro amount of material - about 6g. The micro compounder features: viscosity measurement, automatic bypass operation for circulation/extrusion, inert gas flush of the feeding area, pneumatic feeding, digital and graphical data display, and manual or computer control. The Shimadzu AGS-J table-top universal tensile tester will be available for demonstration during the exhibition. Tensile or compressive strength is a key mechanical property within the polymer industry. The Autograph AGS-J is a column extension type universal tester, which offers high precision and high reliability in material testing. All operations of the unit are made using the operation panel with a digital LED display showing the actual force or stress and either elongation or strain. A large variety of convenient functions for high productivity of tests are provided and the system conforms to CE requirements. Call us to discuss running your samples during Ausplas info@rheologysolutions.com <52>

53 Product Focus HAAKE PolyLab OS Torque Rheometer - Open System for material testing & processing The HAAKE PolyLab OS is a modular torque rheometer platform for process engineering applications. The OS stands for the fundamental platform concept that of Open System, allowing a number of standardised sensors and systems to be connected to it for optical, viscosity, and spectroscopy measurements. The HAAKE PolyLab OS is designed to conduct mechanical characterisation of fluids or solids through deformation, shear or stress at defined environmental conditions. Application areas include: Polymers Processing related data such as melt characteristics, the effects of additives, temperature and shear stability as well as dynamic viscosity during shear are of great importance to the development of innovative polymers. Process simulation in the form of compounding and extrusion of rods, profiles or films combined with rheological or visual measurements, assists in optimising procedural parameters to create samples for testing. These samples can also be used to conduct checks on incoming and outgoing goods for viscosity, dispersion or plastifying characteristics. Rubber The impact of carbon black on the cross-linking characteristics of a rubber compound and the dispersion, vulcanisation and flow properties of rubber are key to product quality in the rubber industry. Optimising the end product mixing times is important to ensure efficient use of production plants, and also to successfully launch competitive products into the market. Ceramics Rheological measurement data relating to dispersability, ability to withstand injection moulding and flow characteristics of ceramic injection moulding compounds and pastes provide the ceramics industry with information to optimise products. Other application and industry areas include Food and Pharmaceutical. Left: HAAKE PolyLab OS Control Right: HAAKE PolyLab OS Extruder The HAAKE PolyLab OS can be used to perform kneader measurements and extruder experiments on polymers, ceramic mixtures, rubber samples, pharmaceuticals or foods. After filling the mixer or extruder and starting the series of tests, the operator can leave the equipment and perform other tasks. The status of a test can be called up using a web browser or organiser regardless of location. The whole sequence of experiments is defined and executed step-by-step in a software procedure. Errors, alarms or messages requiring the attention of the operator are displayed on all monitors. New PTW16 XL Parallel Twin Screw Extruder Horizontally split, with a lift off top for easy cleaning, removal of screws and visualisation of the melting process The segmented top barrel is built with 4D modules for easy reconfiguration by the operator Barrel segments are available for cooling, feeding solids, or liquids and venting Offer maximum flexibility for feed ports, length and screw design PTW16 XL D extendable Parallel Twin Screw Extruder Flexible length not all applications require a long extruder as shear sensitive material can degrade and 25D is long enough for basic applications Optional 15D barrel extensions enhance residence time (for reactive extrusion) or multiple feed ports Extension is easy to attach and can be added in less than 15 minutes PolySoft software will recognise the extension unit when it is connected Physical Test Methods Extensional Viscosity Using patented die geometry with an extruder or melt pump allows for quantification of the shear viscosity and extensional viscosity and correlates well with die swell. Mw, MWD Based on the rheological spectra (G G =f(ω)) and with a model theory calculation of the average Molecular Weight Mw and the Molecular Weight Distribution MWD can be determined online and direct in the melt. info@rheologysolutions.com <53>

54 Rotors Roller Blades for the testing of viscous properties, cross linking reaction and the shear/thermal stress of thermoplastics and thermosets Cam Blades to test thermoplasts and elastomers in the medium shearing range Banbury Blades to test natural and synthetic rubber as well as rubber compounds Sigma Blades for the low shear range to test the adsorption behaviour of powders and flours G G =f(ω) The mechanical spectra are measured with an axial oscillating rheometer in the polymer melt. The sensor is mounted in a pressure port and uses the measurement principle of oscillating squeeze flow. Colour Measuring colour directly in the melt and controlling it without running samples in the laboratory is possible using a fibre optical probe in the melt which is connected to a UV/VIS spectrophotometer. Software allows correlation with the laboratory colour data. PolyLab OS System - Modular system for mixer, single screw extruder or twin screw extruder to be connected (one at a time) to a single drive unit via central coupling - Open System to connect and integrate different components - RheoDrive new drive concept with intelligent kw motors ~ very smooth and silent running (RD2 is a synchronous motor) drive system specifically selected for improved mixer test results PAV Squeeze Flow Rheometer Docking station - New mechanical mechanism to lock the docked systems in place; easy to use and safe - Only one central socket/connector to eliminate cables and wires - Rigid and stable chassis on rollers to travel to different locations in a pilot plant CAN Open Bus - Intelligent CAN bus integrates all peripherals with self-identification and transfer of characteristic data like calibration data table - Adaptation of all standard CAN open components (thermocouple, pressure sensor, additional sensors) without software modification - Integration of downstream equipment with standardised interface Connectivity - Simple plug & play computer connection with USB or TCP/IP (option) - Remote controller (cable based) to operate the drive manually - Remote diagnosis and status info with Web browser or PDA Technical Technical Data Data PC connection Power connection USB Interface 2 sockets for feeder power supply Operation Manual control unit Measuring sensor Connection via connection central docking station Control and PolySoft supplied with evaluation software the system Measuring sensors Wide variety of singlescrew, twin-screw and mixer sensors can be connected Test monitoring Using PC or PDA Internal Using CAN Open Bus communication all connected sensors and ancillary units are automatically recognised SPECIAL OFFER Torque rheometer replacement offer for HAAKE Rheocord models expires on 31 August, If you have a HAAKE EC Floor model, HAAKE EU5 Bench top model, HAAKE System 40 model, HAAKE RC90/RC9000 model, Plasticorder, Plastograph or Plastmill contact us to discuss replacing your old torque rheometer. Plan to replace your system and capitalise on the value added offer available. info@rheologysolutions.com <54>

55 New Product Application Micro Rheology Compounder for Pharmaceuticals HAAKE Pharma MiniLab The HAAKE MiniLab micro rheology compounder has been modified to meet the requirements of pharmaceutical manufacturing and is suitable for proof of concept studies and creating specimens for drug delivery systems. The HAAKE MiniLab enables compounding and rheological measurement with a micro amount of material (approx: 5 g) such as pharmaceutical polymers, active ingredients, filling material etc. This is of interest in early research and development for the evaluation of new formulations for instance during new polymer development, testing of expensive ingredients and material studies. The system is based on a conical co- or counter-rotating twin-screw compounder. Manual control is executed using a separate control and monitoring panel which features easy handling using a menu. HAAKE Pharma MiniLab Advantages Substantial cost saving for proof of concept studies as small quantities of ingredients (5g) are compounded Understanding of material characteristics by documenting structural changes using integrated viscosity measurement Flexible process conditions for different materials by: - Using conical or co-rotating screws - Automatic bypass operation for recirculation - Force feeder especially for continuous feeding Features No painted parts All sheet metal is made of stainless steel (304) Air supply connectors made of stainless steel Barrel Stainless steel No (440 B) passivated Hardened to 55 Rockwell C Roughness of wetted surface to 0.4μm Stainless Steel Barrel Control Panel Data log includes time and date plus - Temperature - Pressure - Screw speed Real time clock can only be adjusted in the maintenance mode Control Panel Software The HAAKE Pharma MiniLab works as a standalone unit with a data dump and does not allow the software control of the instrument. The data dump contains the following information: General data - Date, equipment type, serial number Process data - Temperature lower barrel, temperature upper barrel, torque, screw speed, pressure Force Feeder Hopper with View Ports Force Feeder - Stainless steel No: (316 L) - Roughness electro polished better than 0.8 μm Force Feeder Screw - Stainless steel No: (440 B) passivated - Surface roughness 0.8 μm Force Feeder Screw Technical Data Technical Data Screws Speed range of screws Conical co-rotating screws, optional counterrotating rpm ±0.5% of max speed without material Heating zones 2 integrated heating zones Heating capacity Each zone 400 W / 2 heating cartridges each zone Maximum temp. 250ºC Temp. control Control temperature over time stable ±2ºC in the range of 50º to 250ºC stabilised after 30 minutes for increasing temperatures, static conditions Temp. resolution ±1ºC Temp. accuracy Cooling zones ±2ºC Cooling of the upper and lower barrel with compressed air 2 x cooling zones Cooling medium Filtered and oil-free compressed air Max. pressure 6 bar (87 psi) for air cooling Mains supply 115/230 V switchable Current 2 x 10 A (for 115V) / consumption 2 x 6.3 A (for 230V) Frequency Dimensions Weight 50/60 Hz 650w x 335d x 395h mm 70 kg info@rheologysolutions.com <55>

56 Product Application Eliminate Misting & Spatter in Printing & Coating Applications Printing speed is often limited by the formation of small droplets, so called misting. The release of the ink follows an elongational pattern. The HAAKE CaBER extensional rheometer can detect materials that are more likely to mist or spatter. Application Example: Offset Printing Offset inks which performed well could not be differentiated by rotation or oscillation measurements from samples showing misting during the printing process. The break-up times showed a significant difference the shorter times lead to less misting. The HAAKE CaBER 1 Suitable for examining: Adhesives - measurement of tackiness - solvent loss or gain, Associating polymers, Biomaterials, Surfactants, Consumer goods - filling of bottles - Time to breakup - solvent loss - processability, Food products - stringiness/strand formation - time to breakup - relaxation of doughs - elastic instabilities, Industrial resins - relaxation time spectrum - constitutive modelling - spinnability Also the extensional viscosities of the two inks were significantly different with the better ink having the lower extensional viscosity. Testing the extensional properties before product application will identify products that are more likely to mist and spatter and allow you to adjust the formula and eliminate the problem. This would improve your process and product performance and provide a new QA/QC procedural step prior to application. Technical Specifications Technical Data Hencky strains up to ε 0 = 10 Strain rate range: Imposed strain rate: 0.01 < ε 0 < 300 s -1 Fluid strain rate: 10-5 < ε 0 < 10 s -1 Shear viscosity Plate diameter mpas 4 < D plate < 8mm, standard=6mm Temperature range 0º 80ºC Diameter resolution System response time Dimensions (instrument only) 8 μm 10 ms 40 x 34 x 60cm Free Testing Offer - contact Rheology Solutions to arrange to have two product samples tested for extensional differences. info@rheologysolutions.com <56>

57 Temperature Control - Application Fogging Testing Equipment Fogging the evaporation of volatile components of soft PVC, textiles or leather materials used for interior fitting and trimmings of motor vehicles. High temperatures in cars cause the volatiles to evaporate and condense on the windshield and create a fog. The HAAKE Fogging Test Equipment meets all test standards and norms ISO 6452/2000 DIN Procedure A (Reflect method) - Procedure B (Gravimetric method) SAE J1756 New Application Testing the fogging behavior of headlight components in automobiles Xenon headlights have temperatures up to 150 C Fogging in the headlights disperse the light and leads to reduced illumination This testing is already the internal norm for automotive companies in Europe Technical Data P2-FOG DC30-K20 Working Temperature 45 to to 150 Range (ºC) Heater Capacity (kw) Cooling Capacity (W) at 20ºC Pump: Pressure max. (mbar) Flow max. (l/min.) Suction max. (mbar) Flow max. (l/min) 22 - Bath volume max (I) Weight (Kg) Dimensions P2 60 x 42.5 x 59 (WxLxH) cm DC30 23 x 46 x 58 Total wattage max. (VA) Mains connection P2 230 / (V/Hz) DC / New Product NEW Extra Long (XL) Series Twin Screw Compounders PRISM Eurolab Thermo Electron Corporation has introduced a new version of its successful PRISM Eurolab XL 16 mm twin-screw extruder. To give the processor even greater flexibility, it is now possible to purchase the standard 25:1 L/D compounder, and, at a later date, to convert to a 40:1 version by simple addition of a bolton 15:1 L/D barrel extension. The longer barrel allows multistage compounding of nano-composites or reactive compounding where long residence times are required. With a horizontally split design the extruder can be easily opened by lifting off the top half of the barrel for thorough cleaning, screw configuration changes or dead-stop melt studies. The upper barrel is assembled from 4:1 L/D segments, which can be easily rearranged to change the position of feeding or venting ports. The PRISM Eurolab XL is controlled through a new colour touch screen, with enhanced graphics and an advanced PLC with plug and play facility recognising when additional ancillary equipment (or the barrel extension) is connected. The controls allow storage of a process configuration and set points to give repeatable operating conditions. Data acquisition is standard for an on-screen trend display, or connection to a PC for full data logging and analysis. PRISM ancillaries include change-bowl premixers, strand and face-cut pelletisers, conveyors, cast sheet and blown film lines. PRISM EuroLab 16mm XL info@rheologysolutions.com <57>

58 New Product Micro Injection Moulding Machine HAAKE MiniJet The HAAKE MiniJet injection moulding machine produces small test specimens like tensile bar, impact bars and disks from as little as 5g of material, whether in powder, pellet or melt form. The HAAKE MiniJet uses a piston instead of a screw to feed the material into the mould keeping barrel volume low. Highly viscous materials can be processed on account of the injection pressure of up to 1,200 bar. The HAAKE MiniJet can be used in combination with the HAAKE MiniLab micro rheology compounder, or as a stand alone machine. The HAAKE MiniJet ready for samples Removing mould reservoir The reservoir can be connected with the HAAKE MiniLab to fill in the melt Features Units bar, psi ºC, F, K No pressing lever necessary due to vertical design Easy filling of pellet samples Same injection pressure with 40% less feeding pressure Temperature Maximum: 400ºC (container) Temperature Maximum: 250ºC (mould) Processing parameters such as barrel and mould temperature, injection pressure and time, and post pressure can be monitored and controlled with the MiniJet microprocessor based control system. The reservoir can be direct filled with pellets into the reservoir chamber Moulds Specific moulds depending on your application requirements are available such as: Standard moulds include 20 mm, 25 mm, and 35 mm disks Tensile testing specimen, ASTM D-638 type V and ISO A tensile bars, and DMA bars. Customised moulds, eg: for tablets for bioavailability studies HAAKE MiniJet Numerical controlled 2 temperatures reservoir and mould Pressure controlled Procedure controlled - Injection pressure & duration - Post pressure & duration All parameters can be stored including 10 recipes Tensile testing specimens and tablets as moulded in the HAAKE MiniJet info@rheologysolutions.com <58>

59 Product Overview Optical Control Systems - Pellet Analyser PA66 The product quality in the plastic processing industry demands that the raw material itself conforms to the necessary requirements with regard to purity, colour and property of the pellets. It is a red light for the raw material producer if the pellets have coloured or black inclusions that are generated in the synthesising and / or pelletising section. It is just as critical if polymer dust and fines occur in the process that indicate non-optimal transport conditions in the area of loading/unloading trucks and bagging. However, if the fines were shown to have been created in the synthesising area, it would be the responsibility of the downstream cyclone classifying to create "fines"-free pellets before delivery. Undesired loose impurities on the pellets are carried in, for example, through contaminated conveying air (filter) or in an unclean silo vehicle, and therefore manufacturer, transporters and end processor will be affected. In this case it is essential to have accurate testing documentation available in order to monitor and eliminate the cause of the defects. Moreover, additional costs in further processing can be prevented. The constantly increasing production speeds in processing demands that the pellet quality complies with technical developments. Continuity with regard to a defined pellet size distribution is required, because at high loads the feed behaviour in the processing machines can react sensitively to even minor fluctuations of a more or less wide distribution. In this context, the pellet shape (e.g. lense/cylinder/dice/sphere) is equally important. Additional interference occurs in processing pellet mixtures if it has to be guaranteed that the composition remains stable in the processing (no segregation). The same applies to master batches or the subsequent metering of additives. The PELLET ANALYSER PA66 system from OCS complies with the precondition through the Pellet Analyser PA66 combination of the highly sensitive Pellet Shape Size Distribution (PSSD), Pellet Scanner (PS25C) and real colour measurement CM2 (option). Impurities are measured in the PS25C inspection system with the help of a 3-CCDchip colour camera according to colours, sizes and shapes. High-performance evaluation software processes the raw data into extremely variable visual graphics and tables, and also into representations of the defects (mosaic display). As a modular inspection system the PSSD system counts and measures the size and shape of pellets. The pellet size and shape can be determined in 10 different classes. The PSSD system also detects twins, triples, spikes and dog-bones as well as pellets with fines and tails. The system can indicate dust and tails proportion. By counting all measured pellets the pellet weight (pellets/g) can be determined, in combination with a weighing device. The colour measurement CM2 (option) determines the colours of the pellets on-line with a spectrometer and presents the data in various standards (e.g. L a b value). With a suitable layout the system can be operated both off-line and on-line. The time history for each production batch is documented and filed through the automatic storage of all measured data. Scope of Application: opaque pellets coloured pellets non transparent pellets transparent pellets Technical Data PS25C: Camera Lighting 3-CCD-chip colour matrix High Frequency synchronised Fluoro lamp Power 22 W, consumption White light spectrum PSSD: Camera Lighting CCD Line Scan Sensor High Frequency synchronized Fluoro lamp Power 32 W, consumption White light spectrum Computer Interfaces Remote Control Software Connection values Industrial computer Pentium technology Ethernet 10/100 M Base-T, digital and analogue I/O, USB, MODBUS, PROFIBUS, RS232 BDE, SAP interface or SQL Extender max 100 m Service Remote Control Operating systems Windows XP Power 230 V AC (50 Hz) / 115V AC (60 Hz) Temperature C info@rheologysolutions.com <59>

60 Product Review HAAKE Temperature Control The HAAKE C/DC circulators are inexpensive units with a high power capacity. These circulators are small, slim-line units which can be used for a wide range of standard applications. A powerful pump and a heating capacity of up to 2000 watts enable the safe temperature control of applications up to 200ºC. Digital displays with user-preset temperatures are available for simple operation. There are five different models: HAAKE C10: Analogy unit up to 100ºC, 1.5 kw heating capacity HAAKE DC10: Inexpensive digital unit up to 100ºC, 2 kw heating capacity HAAKE DC30: Digital unit with RS232C up to 200ºC, 2 kw heating capacity HAAKE DL30: Same as DC30, however with 200 mm immersion depth HAAKE DC50: Same as DC30, however with connection for Pt100 sensor and external control Product Features: Powerful pumps with Turbulence Reduction System (TRS) Simple operation due to separate display panels for menu selection and temperature (except for C10) Microprocessor with PID control (except C10) Resolution of the digital display for the set and actual temperature optionally 0.1 or 0.01ºC Real Temperature Adjustment (RTA) Saving of 3-user defined fixed temperatures with their respective RTA values The reason for a unit fault is shown on the display via the Fault Identification System (FIS) RS232C interface (except for C10, DC10), optional RS485 interface with the DC50 External Temperature Control (ETC) for external systems (DC50 only) Connection for an external Pt100 sensor (for DC50 only) The HAAKE C/DC immersion circulators are used for the temperature control of baths up to 50 litres. They can be attached to bath walls with a thickness of up to 25mm using a bracket clamp. A pivotal nozzle ensures even misting and a good temperature distribution within the entire bath. The minimum depth of the bath must be 150 or 500 mm. The TRS feature can be used to avoid turbulence in the open bath. An extensive range of circulators, cryostats and coolers are available to meet most heating or cooling applications. info@rheologysolutions.com <60>

61 Product Focus Optical Control Systems - Wide Web Inspection System The Wide Web Inspection System FSP 600 The Wide Web Inspection Systems FSP600 from Optical Control System (OCS) is designed to inspect 100% of the surface on a film line. The systems can be used for transparent and opaque film and are tailored to the production requirements for film width and line speed. The web inspection system FSP 600 detects, documents and protocols optical defects on transparent and opaque/coloured film using transmission and reflection lighting technology. The lighting technology is a special lighting unit with a focussing lens. This lamp uses high frequency standard fluorescence tubes, so that service and maintenance costs are very low. The maintenance can be carried out easily by the customer. The defects are classified according to customised defect classes like gels, black specs, fisheyes, holes, contaminations or flies/insects. The images of these defects are stored for further analysis. The high end system uses Fuzzy algorithms and is able to distinguish e.g. between a fly and a gel. The easy Teach-In classification enables the operator to select and name the defect classes by evaluating the defect images. Then a classifier automatically determines the parameters for these defect classes. Furthermore, the operator has the possibility to evaluate the defect image with a 3-D Analyser. The Filmtest Evaluation Software enables the customer to re-analyse the defect information according to other specifications. The sophisticated software enables the operator to analyse the roll quality and to print quality protocols of the rolls. It is possible to report the defects to various customised lanes in the machine direction. The system warns the operator with an alarm lamp if critical defects or an amount of critical defects per m 2, 10 m 2 or 100 m 2 occur. The system has input interfaces e.g. for roll changes, web breaks etc. All this information will be stored and reported in the quality protocols and on the graphical user interface. Features: Automatic Defect Marker - alarm signals for the marking of defects in the running production line are individually configurable info@rheologysolutions.com <61>

62 Modular Architecture - easy expansion, easy customisation and adaptation Optimal Lighting Technology - use of special lighting techniques depending on the application Process Synchronisation - integration of the inspection system into the production line (automatic recipe choice, roll change signal, inspection stop) Real-Time Defect Analysis - fast analysis and display of the inspection to allow immediate process changes if necessary Statistics - statistical information (absolute, per 10m m 2 and trend) depending on defect size and type Transparency Measurement - online measurement of the absolute and relative transparency values Lane Reporting - the defects will be reported to various lanes. The lane width can be configured automatically or individually Step 1: Choose Defect Step 2: Name Defect Open Data Format - the inspection data can be converted into common formats (Access, Excel) for additional statistics Streak/Line Detection - highly sophisticated 2-D filter operations in realtime detect low-contrast defects within the surface in machine direction Step 3: Teach-In Defect Second Defect Analysis - after the first defect detection the captured photos can be re-analysed by a higher sensitivity level in real time to find low contrast irregularities nearby Online Sensitivity Level Control - change of sensitivity level (detection threshold) during running operation to optimise the system configuration Easy Teach-In Classification - intelligent Fuzzy Technology classifies the defects automatically by their parameters Defect Map - running defect map with different symbols for the various defect types Mosaic Map - this map displays the real images (photos) of the detected defects Time Trend - graphical view of the detected defect classes subject to the width information 3D - Defect Analysis - powerful software tool for a sophisticated defect image analysis info@rheologysolutions.com <62>

63 Product Reviews Optical Scanning Enhanced In-Line Detection of Impurities Many industries require the highest standards for their packaging materials, both in terms of the raw materials from which they are manufactured and the quality of the final product. One of the major problems with raw materials for packaging systems manufactured from polymer melts is presence of impurities in the feedstock to extruders, resulting in imperfect or discoloured films. If these imperfections are not detected, then the final product will suffer in terms of its optical and perceived quality. Pellet and powder scanning systems allow impurities in the feedstock to be detected by using a closed circuit camera and associated computer software. The software can be trained to monitor and count user designated defects, allowing the operator or manager to assess the risks to production of continued use of the feed. Following is an overview on two products from Optical Control Systems portfolio for pellet evaluation. PSSD - Pellet Shape and Size Distribution System Application The measuring system PSSD - Pellet Shape and Size Distribution System - inspects the size and shape distribution of granules or pellets. The system works at high speed which contributes to expediting production processes and improving quality control. At a large measurement range and high throughput, up to 50 kg/h depending on the size of the pellets, a high repeatability is guaranteed, independent of the shape of the pellet. Components The system consists of a housing containing a high-speed line sensor, a lighting source and the transport mechanism. The line sensor is connected to a high-performance imageprocessing computer, which is integrated into a 19''-4HE housing. The OCS PSSD System Mode of Operation It is possible to test transparent and nontransparent granules. To gain a better overview, the pellets are classified in up to 10 definable class sizes of 100μm and above. The resolution is 100μm. The line sensor and the lighting source are installed opposite one another. The pellets move from a funnel over a vibrating conveyor to a ramp between sensor and lighting source. From there, they fall into a container in one layer and are recorded continuously by the sensor. Features During the measurement, the recorded images and the measurement data can be observed on a monitor. The results can be represented in coloured graphs or tabular form and after each completed measurement a test certificate can be printed out. For further evaluation, it is possible to generate plots of time behaviour and histograms. It is also possible to define alarm limits. When these are exceeded, a floating contact is switched (optional). The existing process interface can optionally be configured according to customer requirements. The system offers the possibility to make many individual adjustments which ensures an exact adaptation to special requirements. These can be stored on hard disc. Thus, an unlimited number of adjustments for many different kinds of material can be defined and stored so that changing from one mode of examination to another is considerably easy. Software The software is completely menu-driven and meets SAA-standard. Operating the system is thus very user-friendly and easy to learn. All measuring data and results are stored on hard disc together with time and date which facilitates later evaluation (SPC). Pellet-Scan-System PS-25C (Colour Camera) Application The Pellet-Scan-System PS-25C (colour camera) was developed for the qualitative and quantitative assessment of granules. Within large scale polymer production, the high quality of the material is not just a question of 'invisible' characteristics. Even the outer appearance of the granules is of great importance. Regular granule shape and colour constancy greatly contribute to the safeguarding of quality during further processing. Aside from the aesthetic aspect, colour deviations can be an indication of hidden material defects. Recognising quality at the right time means a large contribution to competitiveness. The PS-25C is applicable for laboratory purposes as well as on-line inspection. The pellets can be submitted as samples or they can be withdrawn from the production line by creating a bypass. Using a bypass system gives the user the advantage of direct inspection of the material during the production process. This allows a fast response to follow up on the source of any defects. The contaminated particles can also be extracted directly after the measurement (optional). Components The unit consists of a 3-CCD-Chip colour camera, lighting, an image processor, a conveying device and a hopper. Equipped with a fully automatic self-cleaning mechanism which cleans the pellet feeder and the optical chamber at various adjustable intervals. Mode of Operation To find and eliminate the cause of certain defects, it is essential to have the most precise information at hand, through obtaining exact and continuous details about the colour, size, frequency, etc. of certain defects. The PS-25C is capable of inspecting transparent and opaque granules. The images are taken with a 3-CCD-Chip colour camera and are processed and evaluated by the image-processor using specially designed software. info@rheologysolutions.com <63>

64 Features This software offers a multitude of adjustment options, enabling the user to configure the system exactly according to individual measurements. For the detection of contamination and foreign particles which show a different colour to pure, uncontaminated material, colour classes can be defined with the "teaching" tool. Furthermore, it is possible to define alarm limits. If these are exceeded, a floating contact is activated. The inspection can be observed on a monitor and visible defects marked and indexed. Images of special importance can be stored and the results represented by a variety of graphics and tables. A colour printer documents the results. The data, software adjustments, the time and duration of the inspection can be easily accessed. This facilitates later evaluation or long-term evaluation. The system can be integrated into any internal data processing by means of an existing software interface, e.g. via Ethernet. The OCS PS-25C System Product Review Shimadzu Universal Uniaxial Tensile Testing Range The EZ Test Texture Analyser - suitable for raw materials through to packaging materials In recent years, the application of numeric values to the sense of touch for materials and products has become very important. In particular, in the food industry, various evaluations are made for product quality assurance and the development of new products from raw materials through to the product packaging materials. The EZ Test texture analyser has two types of software (Rheometer Software and Trapezium 2) and a wide selection of jigs open up a variety of applications such as product packaging and numerically expressing food product texture characteristics like maticabilty, smoothness, and palatability. The EZ Test measures such properties as: * Hardness & Crispiness * Elasticity * Staleness * Crustiness * Strength *Brittleness. Maximum test forces: 5N, 10N, 20N, 50N, 500N (choose the load cell to suit your test needs) Shimadzu EZ Test Texture Analyser Shimadzu AGS-J Table Top Universal Tester Autograph AGS-J-Table Top Type Universal Tester - suitable for low strength, brittle materials through to strong polymers and end products The Autographs AGS-J is a column extension type universal tester, which offers high precision and high reliability in material testing. All operations of the unit are made using the operation panel with a digital LED display showing the actual force or stress and either elongation or strain. A large variety of convenient functions for high productivity of tests are provided and the system conforms to CE requirements. Forcedisplacement curves can be recorded on any user-selected scale and a variety of jigs are available including: * Spring-characteristic evaluation jig * 45º peel test jig for printedcircuit boards * Cycle bending test jig * Bending test jig. Various applied test attachments are available to further extend the performance of the AGS-J. These include attachments for: * Studies of physical properties including strength * Tests in desired environments * Displacement measurement * Automating tests. The system operates using Windows and has a comprehensive dedicated software package for every application. Maximum test forces: 20N, 50N, 100N, 500N, 1kN, 10kN info@rheologysolutions.com <64>

65 Product Review Sample Testing Unit The Sample Testing Unit ST-4 from Optical Control Systems (OCS) was designed for the precise inspection of surfaces with a small area. The ST-4 unit can examine materials such as: Transparent Films, Sheets & Glass Non-Transparent/Opaque Coloured Films, Rubber, Paper, Metals & Textiles The system detects impurities, holes, scratches and other surface irregularities. It is suitable for R&D, technical centres and customer support. The ST-4 is a small, compact unit consisting of a special high-speed digital line sensor and two lighting units, one located in the protective aluminium housing and one just above. The line sensor is connected to a highperformance image-processing computer, which is integrated in a 19-4HE housing. The ST-4 offers: Improved quality elimination of nonstandard product Labour savings The ST-4 Sample Tester from OCS is perfect for laboratory applications. Accurate and consistent automatic grading Reduction of customer returns Product Review Powder Testing System The Powder Testing System (PT 2C) from Optical Control Systems with colour camera counts and classifies contamination. Colour classes can be defined with the "teaching" tool to detect discolorations and foreign bodies which are different in colour to the bulk material, like PVC, PP, PE etc. The system is capable of detecting contamination and discoloured powder particles (pink, yellow, brown, black etc.). These inhomogenities are sorted into different class sizes which are completely user definable. Furthermore, it is possible to define alarm limits. If these are exceeded, a floating contact is activated. The software offers a multitude of configuration possibilities, enabling the user to adapt the system exactly according to individual requirements. The PT2C is applicable for laboratory purposes as well as on-line inspection. The powder can be submitted as a sample or it can be withdrawn from the production line by creating a bypass. Using a bypass system gives the user the advantage of direct inspection of the material during the production process. This allows quicker reaction to any defects. The PT2C from OCS is perfect for online and laboratory applications for all free flowing powders across, food, pharmaceutical and polymer industries Product Review QC Rheometer The HAAKE RheoStress 1 with the TC1 high temperature unit is a dedicated rotational rheometer designed for measuring the viscoelastic properties of polymer melts. With its sturdy polymer-concrete casing it is perfectly suited for everyday use in a pilot plant and or QC environment. The HAAKE RheoStress 1 is capable of performing all standard rotational and oscillatory rheological tests in Controlled Stress (CS), Controlled Rate (CR) and Controlled Deformation (CD) mode. The HAAKE RheoStress 1 rheometer supplements the existing HAAKE rheometer line with a modular laboratory rheometer that has the features of a research instrument. These features include viscosity measurements at defined shear rate or shear stress, determination of the yield point with controlled stress, creep and recovery tests for stability measurements and dynamic measurements (oscillation) for the determination of elasticity. HAAKE RheoStress 1 Rheometer easy to use and adaptable for different rheological applications info@rheologysolutions.com <65>

66 Product Review for Polymer Industries Production and Quality Control Production runs 24 hours a day and is measured by high output and low waste. Testing machines are required to check the output of the production machines in order to get a constant quality. If something runs out of specifications due to a machine failure, the tests should quickly indicate a change in quality and ideally suggest a counter measure to eliminate the problem. The MVR (Melt Volume Rate) is an accepted value to guarantee the quality of the polymer production. Production can also be understood as the manufacture of small quantities of special polymer compositions which are expensive, difficult to handle or needed in kilos only. This is required for pharmaceutical applications, for polymers with special material properties and for special applications. PRISM Compounders PRISM 24 and 36 mm twin screw extruders offer flexible compounding configurations for small batches (5 to 200 kg/hr) for either pilot scale production or low volume manufacturing. The co-rotating twin screw extruders feature a modular barrel construction from 25:1 to 40:1 L/D in 4D segments with side feeding, liquid injection and venting ports and can be tailored to individual requirements. The full- length opening barrel allows easy access to the screws for easy reconfiguration and cleaning. A touch screen operator interface with data logging options and recipe storage guarantees repeatable results. Feeding and HAAKE POSTEXtrusion systems are controlled via the extruder. PRISM 24 HC TSE with open barrel batch extrusion to get small quantities of the new polymer HAAKE MeltFlow HT Indexer The HAKE MeltFow HT Indexer is an easy to operate instrument with automated weight lift system for MVR and MFR measurements. From the simultaneous MVR and MFR measurements the melt density is calculated. Integrated adjustable weight carries allow measurements with different loads. With the optionally available automatic weight magazine up to three loads per test can be applied. The results can be used for a flow curve or automatic calculation of the melt rate ration (MRR). The MeltFlow software provides full instrument control and data evaluation capabilities. HAAKE MeltFlow HT Indexer - MVR is the fingerprint of your polymer HAAKE PolyDrive Mixer The HAAKE PolyDrive mixer station is an easyto use stand-alone unit for Quality Control applications such as routine testing, material certification and monitoring production quality. The HAAKE PolyDrive mixer covers a wide range of applications such as fusion behaviour and the stability of PVC, effects of additives and curing behaviour. For recycling granulate, the mixer is used to determine melt behaviour as a measure for extrudability and to homogenise the product for further QC testing eg: MFR/MVR tests. HAAKE ProFlow On-Line Melt Rheometer The HAAKE ProFlow Rheometer offers continuous MFR (Melt Flow Rate), MVR and viscosity supervision. The versatility of the HAAKE ProFlow design permits simple installation on the whole range of extruders from lab scale to production. The rheometer combines short reaction times with easy set up for production process needs. The integrated, automatically controlled bypass keeps flow rate and extrusion pressure constant. Data acquisition software is available to document the process. Flexible threshold and alarm setting guarantee safe operation. HAAKE ProFlow On-Line Melt Rheometer prove your continuous product quality HAAKE PolyDrive Mixer a stand alone unit for monitoring production quality info@rheologysolutions.com <66>

67 Product Review for Temperature Control Production and Quality Control Water Recirculators The HAAKE TC-Line of water recirculators is available as basic versions in three sizes with 5 capacity classes between 900 and 4900 watts. Each basic TC water recirculator version can be ordered in combination with a security and communication package as an advanced version. Advanced means: Alarm for low level and low flow RS232C-interface 24V connector for external start/stop read-out alarm status Process Chillers The NESLAB HX series of process chillers are compact and perfect for cooling process applications or analytical instrumentation. If your heat load is below 10,000 watts, these chillers can provide an excellent solution. The NESLAB HX series of process chillers provide you with years of reliable cooling on your critical process. Flexible configurations, tight stability, and air or water cooled units are available to meet your needs. HAAKE offer a complete range of heating and refrigerated temperature control products for laboratory applications. A complete catalogue is available on request. HAAKE TC100 Water Recirculator Specifications SPECIFICATIONS TC100 TC200 TC300 TC400 TC500 Temperature range * C Temperature accuracy ±K Cooling capacity at 20 C kw Pump capacity Pump DP1: Pressure max. bar 4,0 4,0 4,0 Flow max. l/min 5,3 5,3 5,3 Pump DP2: Pressure max bar 4,0 4,0 4,0 4,0 Flow max l/min 12,5 12,5 12,5 12,5 Pump connections R 1/2 R 1/2 R 1/2 R 1/2 R 1/2 High and low temperature variable variable variable variable variable protection Dimensions:width x depth mm 310x x x x x701 height mm Standard version 50 Hz: 230 V 230 V 230 V 400 V/ 3P 400 V/ 3P Type with Pump DP1 TC101 TC201 TC301 Order number Type with Pump DP2 TC202 TC302 TC402 TC502 Order number Advanced version 50 Hz: 230 V 230 V 230 V 400 V/ 3P 400 V/ 3P Type with Pump DP1 TC111 TC211 TC311 Order number Type with Pump DP2 TC212 TC312 TC412 TC512 Order number * Note: Each of the above listed TC versions (except models type TC301 and TC311) can be supplied with extended temperature range (-15 to +35 C). The type name is given an extra L and the order number 392- is sub-stituted by NESLAB HX 150 Process Chiller the NESLAB chillers offer long-term reliability and flexible configurations tailored to your application NESLAB HX 750 for your critical process applications info@rheologysolutions.com <67>

68 Specifications SPECIFICATIONS NESLAB HX 75 HX 150 HX 300 HX 500 HX 750 Standard temperature range C 5 to 35 5 to 35 5 to 35 5 to 35 5 to 35 Optional temperature range 5 to 90 (1Kw 5 to 90 (2.5Kw 5 to 90 (5 Kw N/A N/A 208VAC) 208VAC) Ambient temperature range C 13 to to to to to 35 Stability C +/ / / / /- 0.1 Condenser air or water cooled air or water cooled air or water cooled air or water cooled air or water cooled Reservoir size 5 Gallons/ 8 Gallons/ 15 Gallons/ 28 Gallons/ 40 Gallons/ 18.9 Litres 30.3 Litres 56.8 Litres 106 Litres Litres Cooling capacity 50 Hz at 20 C 1,660 W 3,735 W 8,300 W 13,030 watts 19,920 watts Pump performance 50 Hz Pump psig psig 2.75 gpm at 50 psig 16 gpm at 50 psig 16 gpm at 50 psig (PD2) (PD2) (PD2) (TU 9) (TU 9) 50 Hz Pump psig psig 8 gpm at 25 psig 10 gpm at 40 psig 10 gpm at 40 psig (TU1) (CP55) (TU5) (CP 75) (CP 75) 50 Hz Pump 3 N/A N/A 10 gpm at 40 psig N/A N/A (CP 75) Power requirements 50 Hz V1ø V1ø V3ø V 3ø V 3ø Unit dimensions cm (H x W x D) 93.3 x 59 x x 66.7 x x 85.7 x x x x x 73.7 Plumbing connections inlet/outlet process 3/4" FNPT 3/4" FNPT 3/4 FNPT(CP-75 1 FNPT) 1 FNPT 1" FNPT inlet/outlet facility (W/C only) 1/2 FNPT 1/2 FNPT 1/2 FNPT 1 FNPT 1 FNPT Plumbing connection drain 1/2" FNPT 1/2" FNPT 1/2 FNPT 1/2" FNPT 1/2" FNPT auto refill 3/8" OD SS barb 3/8" OD SS barb 3/8 OD SS barb 3/8" OD SS barb 3/8" OD SS barb Refrigerant 50 Hz R134A R134A R134A R134A R404A Compliance 50 Hz units CE CE CE CE CE Unit weight kg Specification listed for standard units circulating water at 20 C fluid temperature and 20 C ambient. Other fluids, fluid temperatures, or ambient temperatures will affect performance. HX 75, HX 150 & HX 300 Cooling capacity and amperage ratings based on units with PD 2 pumps. HX 500 & HX 750 Cooling capacity and amperage based on units with CP 75 pumps. Other pumps will affect performance. Specifications are subject to change. info@rheologysolutions.com <68>

69 Industry Application Concrete & Building Industry The Schleibinger BT2 is a compact rheometer for fresh concrete. In contrast to the spread table the concrete is tested at various loads. Therefore you can determine a relative yield stress and a relative viscosity. The construction avoids structural breakdown and segregation during measuring. The BT2 is small, power independent and easy to use. A sample of test material is placed in the sample container. The BT2 is fixed into the middle of the sample container and turned one revolution by hand. The internal software measures the data by monitoring the momentum on the three probes and the angular velocity. On completion of the measurement the readings can be wirelessly transferred and displayed on an external Palmtop. As with most rheometers the shear stress is measured at various speeds when a probe is rotating in the container. With the BT2 you will get three speeds at the same time. So one revolution is enough. You will never measure in the same place twice. The system is driven by hand, and all the electronics are power independent. The ideal instrument specially designed for the building site. SPECIFICATIONS Specifications Container diameter Height of the shaft Specimen volume Length measurement arm, Length probes Measurement range torque Measurement range speed Resolution angle Display in the external device 50 cm 130 mm 19.6 Litre 43 cm 90 mm 0-3 Nm 0-4 m/s 1000 / 2 pi Graphical display Palmtop 160x160 points Handling 2 buttons + external Palmtop (included) Interface IRDA Power supply 4 A cells C size Weight wo container ca. 6.9 kg Schleibinger BT 2 Concrete Tester & Schematic info@rheologysolutions.com <69>

70 Product News New Twin-Screw Compounder The versatile PRISM TSE 24 MC compounder provides small-scale continuous processing for research, development and production applications in the polymer industry. Installation of this floor-mounted unit is simple and fast. The proven clam-shell design of the 24 mm opening barrel gives immediate access to the screws for easy cleaning and quick configuration changes. New, replaceable barrel liners can be manufactured from special materials to handle aggressive applications. High free-volume geometry improves feeding of low-density ingredients. The new PRISM compounder features PLC control with wireless data logging and recipe storage to ensure reliable and repeatable results. Products can be related back to processing conditions. A rugged touch screen with microprocessor control enables both simple operation and full data acquisition. The extruder s Plug and Play feature allows quick connections for feeders, vacuum systems and PRISM downstream equipment. Applications: Compounding Masterbatch Nanocomposites Blown film Sheet extrusion Materials: Polymers Ceramics Food Adhesives Pharmaceuticals PRISM TSE 24 MC open barrel with liner Technical Specifications Barrel length L/D 28:1 28:1 40:1 40:1 Barrel bore diameter mm Screw diameter mm Channel depth mm Center-line spacing mm Center-line to radius ratio Maximum screw speed rpm Power at maximum screw speed kw Torque per shaft Nm Torque/ (C-line 3 ) Nm/cm Barrel zones Heater rating W 24 x x x x 375 Die heater rating W 2 x x x x 375 Extruder Dimensions L x W x H cm 185 x 70 x x 70 x x 70 x x 70 x 135 Scale-Up Data Internal free volume cm Peripheral surface area cm Surface Area per unit free volume m 2 /l Typical output kg/h 2 to 20 2 to 50 2 to 20 2 to 50 Services Electrical power Volt/ph/Amp 400V/3ph+N/50A 400V/3ph+N/63A 400V/3ph+N/50A 400V/3ph+N/63A Cooling water 20 C liters/min info@rheologysolutions.com <70>

71 Product Accessories Sensor Systems for HAAKE Mars Sensor systems are available for cone/plate and plate/plate from 20 mm to 60 mm diameter, with cone angle from 0.5 to 4º as standard. Special sensors include: serrated sensors to reduce slippage mirrored sensors for simultaneous optical and rheological measurement, and ceramic shaft sensors for high temperature applications Following are typical sensor systems for the HAAKE viscometer and rheometer range. High-temperature geometries with ceramic shaft at different diameters Coaxial cylinders according to DIN in different sizes Double-cone geometries for measurements on low viscosity samples Selection of special measuring geometries with serrated surfaces to prevent slippage, with helical groovings to prevent sedimentation, vane rotors and rotors with glass covers Titanium geometries with measuring plate cover with same diameter for optimised gap filling; sample cover with integrated solvent trap Measuring Geometries Disposable coaxial cylinders, plate/plate and cone/plate measuring geometries, customtailored dimensions, and a variety of different materials are all part of the product portfolio. Standard titanium measuring geometries have a low mass and therefore a low inertia. For measurements at higher temperatures, geometries with a ceramic shaft are available. The geometries are characterised by a reduced heat transfer to the measuring head and a limited temperature gradient within the sample. To avoid sedimentation or slippage, measuring geometries with serrated or sandblasted surfaces are available. * Cones with angles of 0.5 and 2.0 are available as well. ** Theoretical minimum viscosity value at lowest torque and highest shear rate. Theoretical maximum viscosity value at highest torque and lowest shear rate. Description Type Shear rate Shear rate Recommended (s -1 ) standard (s -1 ) high viscosity range option shear (mpas)** Double gap cylinder system DG Cylinder Ø 40 mm ISO 3219 Z40 DIN Cylinder Ø 20 mm ISO 3219 Z20 DIN Cylinder Ø 10 mm ISO 3219 Z10 DIN Cylinder Ø 41 mm DIN Z Cylinder Ø 38 mm DIN Z Cylinder Ø 31 mm DIN Z Profiled cylinder Ø 38 mm DIN Z38/S Disposable cylinder Ø 41 mm ISO 3219 Z41DIN/E Disposable cylinder Ø 25 mm ISO 3219 Z25DIN/E High shear cylinder 25 μm gap HS High shear cylinder 100 μm gap HS Double cone Ø 60 mm, 1 angle DC60/ Cone Ø 60 mm, 1 angle* C60/ Cone Ø 35 mm, 1 angle* C35/ Cone Ø 20 mm, 1 angle* C20/ E+08 Plate Ø 60 mm PP Plate Ø 35 mm PP Plate Ø 20 mm PP E+08 Plate Ø 35 mm serratetd PP35/S Plate Ø 20 mm serratetd PP20/S E+08 info@rheologysolutions.com <71>

72 Product Accessories Sensor Systems for HAAKE Viscotester VT550 Sensor NV MV1 MV2 MV DIN SV 1 SV 2 SV DIN Cup NV MV MV MV/TMV SV SV SV/TSV Temperature Vessel ± + + ± Application Low viscosity Medium viscosity liquids High viscosity liquids Viscosity Range (mpas) Recom. Viscosity Range (mpas) Shear Rate (s -1 ) Sample Volume (cm 3 ) Gap (mm) Radius, Length (mm) 20.1/ / / / / / /31.95 Repeatability (± %) Reproducibility (± %) Sensor PK 1,1 PK 1,0.5 PK 2,1 PK 2,0.5 HV 2 DIN MV 2P SV 2P Cup HV 2 MVP SVP Temperature Vessel PK 100 D or PK Application Small sample volume, high viscosity samples High viscosity Slippage Viscosity Range (mpas) Recom. Viscosity Range (mpas) Shear Rate (s-1) Sample Volume (cm3) <0.1 < Gap (mm) rad rad rad rad Radius, Length (mm) 14/ 14/ 10/ 10/ 4/ / /19.6 Repeatability (± %) Reproducibility (± %) Sensor E 3 E 30 E 100 E 500 E 1000 FL 10 FL 100 FL 1000 Cup Beaker and sample volume depend on application Adapter Adapter is required (part.-no or ) Application Fast and simple relative measurements Relative measurem. of disperse samples Temperature C C Viscosity (mpas) Radius, Length (mm) 25/116 12/50.5 8/34.5 5/9 3.5/ /60 11/16 5/8.8 Repeatability (± %) Sensor B 1 B 2 B 3 B 4 B 5 B 6 B 7 Cup Beaker and sample volume depend on application Adapter ISO-Adapter is required, part.-no Application Viscosity measurement according to ISO 2555, ASTM D , D789-73, D Temperature C Viscosity (mpas) Radius, Length (mm) 28.13/ / / / / / /50.4 Repeatability (± %) info@rheologysolutions.com <72>

73 Product News Film Surface Analyser The FSA100 from Optical Control Systems is a modular surface inspection system for use in laboratories and production. The film quality is assessed optoelectronically through the use of high resolution line cameras and the appropriate illumination technology. The measurement data are stored in an inspection report so that later analysis is possible at any time. The modular concept permits the use of different camera and illumination constellations and can therefore be optimally used for transparent, dyed and nontransparent plastic films. Optimum adaptation in laboratory work and in encapsulated measuring stations is a major contribution towards quality control. In addition to the mere recognition and classification of defects, the system can also be used for analysis, recording, archiving and documentation purposes. Every defect detected is transferred with the defect image to the measurement protocol together with its feature vector (position, size, shape...). The system can be modified exactly to suit the application requirements. Performance features Modular architecture Simple possibility of adaptation Operation Menu-guided Windows desktop with individual window representation Optimum lighting technology Use of special lighting techniques (filters, diffusers) depending on the material to be inspected Real-time defect analysis Rapid evaluation and representation of the measurement results in various ways. Table with size classes, time history, mosaic view, grades graphics... Table view Tabular display (absolute, per m, total defect area etc. and trend display) as a function of defect size and type Mosaic view Continuous display of the defects detected as real images (display of defect sections) Time history Graphic representation of the defect classes detected as a function of time, length or parcels Easy teach-in classification Defects are automatically classified by their features thanks to the use of intelligent fuzzy technology 3D defect analysis High-performance software tool for improved image analysis Transparency measurement For transmittance measurements, on-line determination of the absolute and relative transparency values Process synchronisation Linking of the inspection system to external equipment, e.g. link to industrial data acquisition system or SAP Interfaces for external equipment APLAIRS, thickness measurement, gloss measurement, haze measurement, label printer... Open database The protocol data can be converted into all common file formats (Access, Excel...) Fields of application Transparent materials (LLDPE, LDPE, HDPE, PC, PS, PET ) Non-transparent materials (Rubber or dyed plastics etc.) Types of defects Contamination, Gels, Fibres, Foreign particles, Black specks & Holes Benefits Improvement of quality (elimination of non-standard product) Competitiveness by QC-Automation Accurate and consistent automatic grading Reduction of customer returns and complaints Increased line speed and process throughput where manual inspection is a limiting factor. Perfect for online and laboratory applications Mosaic view of defects Film-Test FSA100 from OCS - perfect for on line and laboratory applications Technical Data Inspection range Camera Principle Dimensions Weight Computer Illumination Dimensions Weight Interfaces Remote control Extender max. Service Software Main power Temperature from 5 mm film width Principle CCD line sensor pixels/camera max. 80 MHz data rate resolution from 5 μm 152 x 157 x 284 mm (W x H x D) approx. 2.5 kg Industrial computer Pentium IV technology Cold-light illumination with cross section transformer 145 x 145 x 340 mm (W x H x D) approx. 4.1 kg Ethernet 10/100 M Base-T, digital and analogue I/O, Modbus, Profibus, RS232, Link to ind. data acq. system or SAP 100 m via ISDN Operating systems WinNT4.0, Win2000, XP Power supply 230 V AC / 115 V AC C without cooling info@rheologysolutions.com <73>

74 Product Accessories Extrusion Equipment HAAKE POSTEXtrusion equipment for the HAAKE PolyLab System Specific downstream equipment and dies complete the HAAKE PolyLab System. A variety of POSTEXtrusion equipment is available for a wide range of applications. Blown-film and chill roll take-off systems for films and sheets, including camera systems are offered for on-line quality testing. Water baths and pelletisers are available for strand dies and conveyor belts allow pipe extrusion. Wire coating dies and take-off systems are available as well as a melt pump with catheter die for high precision products like medial tubes and catheters. Product Focus HAAKE PolyLab Blown Film Die Film production simulation for polymer development, materials evaluation and parameter monitoring requires highly adaptive small scale systems with complete process functionality. The PolyLab System and RheoMex extrusion line, in conjunction with a blown film die and take-off tower system, provide a means of accurate thin film production for total process evaluation with less than 1 kg of material. Application The blown film die creates a thin-walled tube which is inflated using compressed air to form a thin circular film. The blown film take-off is a mobile unit which then transports this film away from the blown film die, cools it under defined conditions and finally coils it. The films produced during this process can be used for: simulating the production process testing for gel particles testing the pigment distribution testing the transparency testing the colour distribution testing the homogeneity testing for contamination and occlusions testing die mechanical properties of the polymer Blown film die The blown film die is used in conjunction with a laboratory extruder. The molten polymer is formed into a thin-walled tube by being forced through a ring gap located at the end of the die. The inside of the extruded tube is inflated by air pressure. Blown film take-off The blown film take-off transports the extruded film in an upward direction. The collapsing guide, made from round wooden bars, forms the film bubble to a flat, double Above: HAAKE blown film take-off system layered film which is in turn fed to the press rollers. This process leads to a pressure buildup within the film bubble and thus to the inflation of the film. info@rheologysolutions.com <74>

75 Product Review Ultra Low Refrigerated Bath Circulators The NESLAB ULT Series of refrigerated bath re-circulators are self-contained, compact, cooling units designed for circulating to external closed loop applications. They provide temperature stability for calibration applications and for instrument cooling. Typical laboratory applications for the ULT Series at temperatures from -90ºC to +10ºC heat exchangers cloud point/pour point calibration cell freezing viscosity studies kinetic cooling cooling GC ovens petroleum studies Designed to achieve low temperature stability for consistent results. With each ULT unit comes many standard features (circulating pump, force/suction pump, heater, digital temperature controller, cascade refrigeration system, automatic load reset, digital display, SS bath) and a full range of options and accessories is available to meet your specific application requirement Product Applications Temperature Control for Viscometers and Rheometers Controlling the temperature of a sample whilst testing viscosity and other rheological properties is a key requirement to ensure that results are reproducible and accurate for the test being conducted. Often, samples are tested at similar temperatures to that of the process or production stages, and it is critical to ensure that the sample whilst under test is held at a consistent and accurate temperature. There are a number of temperature control products available from HAAKE to meet the needs of specific temperatures for individual product testing. Following is the HAAKE temperature control product that is commonly used in conjunction with the HAAKE range of viscometers and rheometers. Refrigerated Circulator HAAKE DC10-K10 The powerful refrigerated circulators in the HAAKE DC class are available either in space Technical Specifications C10-K10 DC10-K10 Working temperature range C Temperature accuracy +/-K Heater capacity 230V / 115V kw 1.5/ /1.2 Cooling capacity at 20 C W at 0 C W at -20 C W - - Pump: Pressure / Flow rate max. mbar/l/min 300/ /12.5 Bath opening: WxLxD cm 13x10x15 13x10x15 Bath volume max. l 3 3 Overall dimensions: WxLxH cm 19.5x36x x36x57 Net weight kg saving vertical versions or an ergonomic flat version. The K10 does not require more space than a sheet of A4 paper on the bench. The units also feature efficient heat removal even at high temperatures and enable the temperature controlling of external closed liquid circuits at temperatures well below 0ºC. Unit selection with the DC class range depends mainly on the required cooling capacity and the desired temperature range. HAAKE DC10-K10 refrigerated recirculator Total wattage 230V / 115V VA 1800/ /1500 Order-No. for 230V / 50Hz The NESLAB ULT Series Bath Circulators are designed to achieve low temperatures and maintain excellent temperature stability for consistent results info@rheologysolutions.com <75>

76 Name:... Title:... Company:... Department:... Street:... Suburb:... State:... Postcode:... Telephone:... Fax: NOTE: If outside of Australia, this request will be forwarded to our overseas partner for their action. I am interested in the following from the Biennial RheoTalk Issue : Application Notes & Laboratory Reports Temperature Control Units for Fogging Application note: Helpful Data for Tests with Extruder Sensors LR04 Examining the Fusion and Degradation Behaviour of PVC Dry Blends LR17 Testing the Flow Behaviour of Two Batches of a Ceramic Injection Moulding Compound LR-21 Degradation tests a new test procedure to examine polymers and antioxidants LR-52 Ceramics - Compounding of Feed Stock with PTW16XL and Sample Production with HAAKE MiniJet - LR56 Film Inspection A Question of Location OCS-003 Flexibility in Polymer Research HA-029 The Influence of Two Different Types of Carbon Black on the Flow Behaviour of a SAN Masterbatch LR-05 Conductivity Measurement for Rubber Compound Qualification LR-46 Use of Bench-Top Twin Screw Extruders for Development of Powder Coatings LR-50 Residence Time Measurements in Bench Top Twin Screw Extruders LR-55 Big Brother for Films Surface Inspection OCS-001 The Embedded Solution as a Symbiosis of Intelligent Hardware and Software Film Inspection OCS-002 Measuring Coatings PPCJ-4500 Use of Bench Top Twin Screw Extruders for Polyolefin s Compounding Optical Scanning Solutions for Quality Control in the Polymer Industry Rheo023 RISM-003 Rheology for the Rubber and Elastomer Industries Rheo024 Application of Liquid and Solid Rheological Technologies to the Textural Thermo Electron Circulators for use with ABBE Refractometers TC05-01e Characterisation of Semi-Solid Food Rheo049 Controlling Enzyme Reaction Temperature with Circulator Bath TC05-02e Cryopreservation of Mammalian Oocytes and Embryos TC05-03e Contribution to the Assessment of Some Rheological Properties Measuring the Effects of Gels Upon Mouth-Feel V-51 of Wheat Gluten V-16 Characterisation of Pressure Sensitive Adhesives (PSA- Systems) V-153 Prediction of Flow Behaviour in Adhesive and Sealant Applications Using Characterisation of Ceramics Using Rheology V-164 Different Rheological Measuring Techniques V-161 Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) and the Measurement of Influence of thickeners on the application method of automotive coatings Bitumen V-190 and paper coatings rheological investigation V-206 Correlation of misting during printing with extensional rheological Optimising and forecasting the filling behaviour of coatings V-211 investigations on offset printing inks V-208 Rheology of Pharmaceutical Suspensions V-216 Measurements on Selected (Semi) - Solids in a Wide Temperature Range The Influence of Alkali Sulphates on the Fluidity of Cement Pastes Using New Solid Clamps V-220 Containing Superplasticizer Study of Starch Gelatinisation in a Flow Field Using Simultaneous Rheology for Cosmetics and Pharmaceutical Manufacture PowerPoint Presentation Rheometric Data Collection and Microscopic Observation Other (please specific application):... Applications Laboratory Contract Testing (please specify)... Instrument Evaluation Free Testing Using the CaBER Extensional Rheometer Other (please specify)... Application Information Kits & Guides Technical Literature List (please select) Mineral Slurries Polymer Industries Food Industries Surface Coatings Technical Literature List (please specify industry)... Tim s Top Tips for Mineral Industries NEW (please select) Thixotropy Yield Stress Flow & Viscosity Curves Tim s Top Tips for Surface Coatings (please select) Shelf Life Flow and Leveling Misting Mixing and Blending Tim s Top Tips for Polymer Industries (please select) Compounding Shark Skin Processability Die Swell Tim s Top Tips for Food Industries (please select) Mouthfeel Shelf Life Processability Cohesiveness