Polymer Molecular Weight Characterization

    Smithers provides a high quality Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) service for molecular weight characterization of plastics and other polymers. As one of the world’s leading suppliers of GPC Characterization, considerable investment has been made in the latest technological advancements and the service now operates from a recently refurbished laboratory with vastly experienced consultants.

    Molecular weight distribution is one of the most important properties of polymers, influencing the strength of solid plastics and rubber, and affecting the viscosity of molten polymers. It is the most widely used and cost effective method of comparing the molecular weight distribution of rubber, plastics and other polymers. A variety of approaches to GPC exist and through consultation Smithers will advise you on the method most applicable to your individual needs. The options are;

    • Conventional or Triple detection GPC with solvents such as THF and Chloroform.
    • Conventional or Triple detection GPC with aqueous based eluents
    • High temperature conventional GPC or combined GPC-Viscosity of Polyolefins
    • High temperature GPC with a range of phenolic and polar solvents
    • GPC with HFIP as the solvent