Dynamic Viscoelastic Measurements by a Balance Rheometer

Abstract

A Balance Rheometer has the characteristics similar to an orthogonal rheometer such that dynamic measurements can be carried out without converting a rotational motion of a drive to a reciprocating motion by a device such as a cam. The results of dynamic measurements on a polystyrene melt and a silicone oil by a Balance Rheometer were in good agreement with those obtained by a conventional coaxial-type rheometer. The use of a Balance Rheometer has the following advantages: (i) A wide frequency range can be covered. (ii) Materials with high moduli can be measured easily. (iii) Dynamic measurements with a large amplitude of strain can be carried out easily. When the material is a nonlinear viscoelastic body, however, it should be noticed that only apparent moduli can be obtained.