Optimize the texture and performance of your products through rheological analyses
Understanding rheology to control the behavior of materials
Rheology is an essential science for industry, allowing the study of the mechanical behavior of materials under the effect of constraints. It is particularly used to analyze the viscosity, elasticity and texture of fluids, semi-solids and deformable solids. Thanks to rheological analyses, it is possible to optimize formulations, ensure product stability and control their performance under real-life conditions of use.
How does rheological analysis work?
Rheological analyses are carried out using different devices: rheometers, Hall cone or Carney viscometers, which apply different stresses to the samples to measure their mechanical response. Depending on the type of test, these instruments can operate in shear, oscillation or controlled flow regimes.
- Hall or Carney cone: allows flowability to be measured according to specific standards (ASTM B213, ISO 4490, ASTM B964, etc.)
- Rotational rheometry : allows viscosity and plasticity to be analyzed by applying a controlled stress.
- Oscillation rheometry : used to study the structuring of materials by measuring the viscoelastic response.
- Extrusiometry: useful for understanding and testing the influence of extrusion parameters on production
- Measurements under different conditions : analyses carried out under various temperatures, shear rates and humidities to simulate real-life operating conditions.
Technical characteristics of rheological tests
- Analyzable viscosity range : from a few mPa·s (very fluid) to several million Pa·s (very viscous materials).
- Measurement modes : rotation, oscillation, controlled shear, variable stresses.
- Temperature range : analyses possible from -40°C to +300°C depending on materials and applications.
- Compatibility with various sample types : powders, gels, creams, molten polymers, aqueous solutions, emulsions, etc.
- Applicable standards : ISO 3219 (shear viscosity), ASTM D4440 (viscoelastic behavior), DIN 51810 (thixotropic analysis), etc.
For which matrices is rheological analysis suitable?
Rheology applies to a wide variety of matrices and samples, including:
Main industrial applications
Rheological testing is essential for many industrial sectors:
Léa Géréec
Technical and scientific advisor
