ATS offers comprehensive polymer composition analysis for precise and accurate studies of materials.
Polymer Testing
Polymers consist of long, repeating macromolecule chains organized based on the material’s composition. The layout and density of these chains control the polymer’s characteristics, structure, and behavior. ATS can test for the composition of frequently used polymers, such as:
- Graphite
- Isoprene
- Polyamide resins
- Polyester
- Polyethylene
- PVC
- Rubber
Polymer testing allows clients to predict a polymer’s performance under various pressures and environmental circumstances, such as extreme heat or stretching forces. Tests that analyze the composition and structure of a polymer help researchers characterize a polymer according to its molecular weight distribution, mechanical properties, and physical properties.
Composition Analysis Uses
We study a polymer’s contents and internal arrangement to inform business decisions. Clients turn to third-party testing as part of quality assurance or product design. We can assess the material’s characteristics, including:
- Brittleness
- Color
- Density
- Distribution
- Ductility
- Flow rate
- Hardness
- Heat capacity
- Malleability
- Plasticity
- Solubility
- Strength
- Tensile strength
- Toughness
- Viscoelasticity
- Viscosity
Material Selection and Identification
Clients may request polymer composition analysis to make an informed selection of materials with desirable qualities. Before mass-producing a product, manufacturers use polymer composition analysis to determine which materials have properties suitable for the product’s intended environment or function.
Product Improvement
Composition analysis of a polymer can influence product improvement. For instance, a client may want to identify a polymer’s chemical makeup to identify an unknown material or harness the properties of a composite polymer. Additionally, composition analysis can help predict the lifespan of a material, which is critical when designing products that handle critical loads or need to last. The composition of a polymer can also indicate how a polymer will degrade and how long it takes to degrade completely. Eco-conscious clients especially appreciate this understanding.
Failure Analysis
Polymer composition analysis may be required after damage or defects occur. Knowledge of a polymer’s strengths and weaknesses is critical to failure analysis and assigning liability for a catastrophic failure, loss of products, or injury.
Composition Analysis Methods
To uncover facts about a known or unidentified polymer, we can use a combination of approaches: chromatography, spectroscopy, microscopy, physical testing, and thermal analysis. ATS’ polymer lab is capable of a range of polymer tests and measurements, including:
- Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC)
- Dilute Solution Viscosity
- Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA)
- Fourier-Transform Infrared Analysis (FTIR)
- Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC)
- Melt Flow Rate
- Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA)
- Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA)
Standards and Specifications
We can also tailor our tests to meet industry process standards such as:
- ASTM D3418
- ASTM D4065
- ASTM D5023
- ASTM D5026
- ASTM D5418
- ASTM E1131
- ASTM E1252
- ASTM E1356
- ASTM E1545
- ASTM E1640
- ASTM E1641
- ASTM E1868
- ASTM E793
- ASTM E794
- ASTM E831
About ATS
For over fifty years, ATS has provided consulting engineering, calibration, inspection, and testing services to clients in various businesses and industries. We support national and international customers involved in product manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and power generation. Our staff of highly qualified professionals works tirelessly to ensure the safe operation of mechanical parts and materials entrusted to our care. As ATS expands its presence through a growing Family of Companies, we welcome clients with cost-effective services and timely results.
Since our founding in 1967, ATS has garnered a reputation for high-quality customer service and thorough testing with a quick turnaround rate. We employ field experts and technicians capable of complex tests and thorough inspections both in the field and in one of our lab sites across the nation. The ATS Super Lab at our headquarters has received accreditations from industry leaders such as A2LA and NADCAP, and regularly performs:
- Materials testing
- Mechanical testing
- Chemistry testing
- Electrical testing
- Nondestructive testing
- Calibrations
To learn more about our industry certifications, click here.
Contact Us
Call +1 (888) 287-5227 to learn more about ATS’ polymer services. To schedule polymer composition analysis in one of our labs, call our number or complete the request form on this page. Let us dedicate our company’s experience and capabilities to your material needs.
