GPC Polymer Characterization is a form of size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) that separates analytes by size or hydrodynamic volume. Clients use polymer characterization to learn about a material’s properties, longevity, and applications. ATS provides a range of polymer testing services for natural and synthetic materials. Our polymer lab uses powerful equipment for Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC). GPC rapidly tests polymer samples, making it a cost-efficient testing method.
Gel-Permeation Chromatography
In Gel-Permeation Chromatography, the polymer sample is dissolved in a solvent and filtered before entering the chromatography column. Larger molecules elute quickly, unable to stay long in the column’s pores. Smaller molecules remain longer in the pores, eluting last. This process separates the molecular weights based on the different molecular sizes.
GPC reveals significant information about a polymer that affects the material’s capabilities. GPC also determines molecular volume, molecular weight, molecular weight distribution, and shape function. It allows chemists to study the polymer’s chain lengths, number average molecular weight, and intrinsic viscosity.
GPC and Characterization
ATS thoroughly analyzes polymer samples before classifying a material based on key properties, such as:
- Impermeability
- Mechanical properties
- Molecular mass
- Molecular structure
- Potential weaknesses
- Resilience
- Structural integrity
- Thermal stability
Polymer characterization allows manufacturers to predict material behavior in its intended environment. Clients also use polymer characterization for other purposes, including:
- Failure analysis
- Predicting degradation
- Product development
- Polymer identification
- Quality control
- Synthetic polymer creation
Standard-Based Testing
Clients can request a range of specifications for GPC polymer characterization, from fully custom to standard-based testing. Our chemists can align our testing procedure to follow the standards outlined by industry authorities:
- ASTM D674
- ASTM D5296
- ISO 13885-1
- ISO 13885-2
- ISO 13885-3
About ATS
ATS provides a multitude of consulting engineering, calibration, inspection, and testing services. Our growing family of companies across America allows clients to connect with local labs or our headquarters in Marietta, Georgia.
Our engineers and technicians are experts in chemical analysis, metallurgical testing, consumer product testing, and failure analysis. We use top-notch equipment to divulge meaningful information about a material, component, machine, or structure. Our emphasis on safe, high-quality services has earned industry recognition:
- ISO 9001:2015 – Quality Management System
- A2LA – Calibrations and mechanical, electrical, chemistry, and nondestructive testing
- NADCAP – Material and nondestructive testing
- FAA Repair Station
- CPSC Approved Labs
- ITAR Consultant
To learn more about our certifications, click here.
Contact Us
Call +1 (888) 287-5227 or complete the form on this page to schedule GPC polymer characterization. Our chemists are also able to perform other polymer services.
