Apparent viscosity analysis

Apparent viscosity analysis measures the consistency of a non-Newtonian fluid under specific shear conditions, without attempting to model its entire rheological behavior. This measurement reflects the perceived texture and flowability of a product during real-world use, making it a crucial indicator for the food, cosmetics, animal nutrition, paints, adhesives, inks, and technical paste formulation industries. It allows for monitoring product stability, batch-to-batch reproducibility, and compliance with industrial specifications.

Understanding apparent viscosity and its implications

Apparent viscosity represents a fluid's resistance to flow under a given shear rate. Unlike a full rheological study, which establishes a behavior curve, this measurement provides a single value for quickly assessing a product's texture and workability. It is particularly useful for non-Newtonian fluids whose viscosity varies with the applied stress. In the food industry, for example, it allows for texture control in sauces, purées, creams, and gels. In cosmetics, it characterizes the ease of application and stability of emulsions, gels, and shampoos. In manufacturing, it helps define flow conditions in transport, pumping, and forming processes.

Analytical methods and test conditions

The measurement is performed using a rotary viscometer, such as a Brookfield or equivalent system. This type of instrument applies a controlled rotational speed to a tool immersed in the sample, while the sensor measures the torque required to maintain this speed. The apparent viscosity is then calculated in mPa·s (or cP). The choice of the moving part, the shear speed, and the temperature is essential to ensure a representative and reproducible measurement. Strict temperature control is particularly crucial, as viscosity varies significantly with heat. Depending on the requirements, several rotational speeds can be tested to evaluate the product's behavior under different operating conditions.

Matrices analyzed and industrial applications

Numerous matrices can be analyzed: food creams, sauces, thickened syrups, gels, purees, pasta (both culinary and technical), extruded products, shampoos, lotions, industrial sludges, inks, adhesives, and paints. Apparent viscosity analysis is often used to verify a product's stability over time, compare different formulations, identify texture variations due to supplier changes, or adjust manufacturing parameters such as mixing, heating, or homogenization.

This measure is also integrated into quality controls to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, internal technical specifications, consumer expectations, or industrial customer standards. It can be carried out routinely or as part of research and development work.

YesWeLab Support

YesWeLab works with a network of laboratories specializing in rheology and physicochemical analysis, selected for their technical expertise and compliance with ISO 17025 and COFRAC standards. Our digital platform allows you to centralize your requests, track your samples in real time, and easily access your results. Our scientific team assists you in choosing the most relevant test conditions, interpreting results, and optimizing your formulations. Since 2020, numerous manufacturers and engineering firms have entrusted us with the characterization of the viscosity and flow properties of their products.

Other analyses from the YesWeLab catalogue

• Complete rheology analysis
• Powder cohesion measurement
• Flow analysis and measurement
• Hygroscopic analysis
• Particle size distribution and physical properties of materials