In-line measurement and modeling of temperature, pressure, and blowing agent dependent viscosity of polymer melts

Abstract During processing and bubble growth processes, the melt viscosity changes with temperature, pressure, blowing agent concentration. Therefore, measurement prediction methods for characterization in terms of dependency are needed. This study demonstrates applicability in-line measurements during foam injection molding process a model superposition prediction. In present study, polystyrene modified polylactide foaming applications nitrogen as investigated. By changing speed, concentration, conditions varied, thus resulting pressure drops within die. The calculated shear rates viscosities shifted to master curve by application principles. on temperature is described Arrhenius equation, Barus novel Barus-like equation was derived applied. function achieved power-law combination principles showed good agreement data. Finally, predictions validated comparing them rotational capillary rheometer measurements.