Physical analysis of plastics

There are innumerable different physical parameters for the exact characterization of plastics. Some properties are more interesting for the manufacturer of plastic components, rather for the user of these components, but most are of great importance for both target groups. At GWP, we are able to determine most physical parameters using state-of-the-art methods.

Standards: DIN EN ISO 11357-2, DIN EN ISO 11357-3, DIN EN ISO 11357-4, DIN EN ISO 11357-5, DIN EN ISO 11358, DIN EN ISO 6427, DIN EN ISO 1628, DIN EN ISO 307, DIN ISO 8296, DIN 53364, DIN EN ISO 1183-1, DIN EN ISO 1183-3, DIN EN ISO 845, DIN EN ISO 15512: 2017-03, DIN EN ISO 62, DIN EN ISO 75, DIN EN ISO 306, DIN EN ISO 1133, ASTM D 1238

Thermal analyses

On finished components, crystallinity, degree of cure and residual reactivity can be determined by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). The filler content can be measured by means of thermogravimetry (TGA). To determine the density, a gas pycnometer, a solid pycnometer and the classical buoyancy method are available.

Layer analysis of plastics

For components with layer systems or composites with differently oriented layers, the layer structure can be characterized. The different layer thicknesses can be measured in an accredited method by light microscopy or electron microscopy or in the case of inorganic coatings by means of glow discharge spectroscopy (GDOES). The chemical composition (link) of the individual layers can of course also be analyzed in this course.

Determination of the flow properties

The thermal properties of plastics include the melting point, the glass transition point, and the specific heat capacity that can be detected by DSC measurements. The softening point can also be determined with the VICAT tester. The melt flow index, the dynamic and kinematic viscosity, as well as the viscosity number can be determined using various rheological methods.

Examination of moisture influences

Important application-related parameters include the water absorption capacity, the residual moisture and the surface tension or wettability. The causes of residual moisture in plastic components are usually in the production process, improper storage or influences in the field. The wettability of the component surface is of great interest mainly for the bonding technique. It is an indicator of component contamination and can be determined using test inks or contact angle measurements.

More detailed descriptions of the mentioned methods can be found under the following link: