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Nylon molecular model

Abstract:
A novel gel permeation chromatography (GPC) method for characterizing Nylon, developed by researchers at Malvern Instruments, significantly reduces the cost of analysis while simultaneously improving safety, when compared with conventional techniques. The new method uses formic acid as a solvent for Nylon, in place of the traditional choice of hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIPA), a relatively expensive, aggressively corrosive solvent with poor health and safety characteristics. First presented at a recent webinar by Dr Wei Sen Wong, his breakthrough is expected to generate significant industrial interest. Revisit it at www.malvern.com/nylon_characterization

A breakthrough in Nylon characterization from Malvern Instruments

Malvern, UK | Posted on August 31st, 2012

GPC is routinely used to determine the molecular weight and molecular weight distribution of Nylon, and indeed many other polymers. It relies on complete dissolution of the polymer in a suitable solvent and this can be a challenge with sparingly soluble polymers. For Nylon, HFIPA is conventionally chosen as a solvent because of its effectiveness, despite the deterrents of toxicity, cost and corrosivity.

The new method, developed by Drs Wei Sen Wong and Kyle Williams at Malvern's research facility in Houston, Texas, achieves complete dissolution using formic acid, a solvent that is typically around 1% of the cost of HFIPA. In addition, formic acid has a more favourable health and safety profile. The new technique can also handle residual water from the polymerization process and does not require the addition of corrosive salts (such as potassium trifluoroacetate KTFA), reducing wear and tear on the chromatography system. These benefits add up to a considerable advance for Nylon characterization, an improvement in health and safety coupled with significant potential for cost reduction.

To find out more about this exciting advance download the webinar or visit the separations section of the www.malvern.com/viscotek-range

www.malvern.com

Malvern, Malvern Instruments and Viscotek are registered trademarks of Malvern Instruments Ltd

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Malvern Instruments is a market leader in measuring performance controlling material properties. These include particle size, particle shape, zeta potential, molecular weight, size and conformation, rheological properties and chemical identification. Malvern delivers the systems, support and expertise that ensure the analytical integrity and productivity needed to drive research, development and manufacturing.

Malvern’s measurement solutions for scientists, technologists and engineers advance continually through customer collaboration. Complementary materials characterization systems deliver inter-related measurements that reflect the complexities of particulates and disperse systems, nanomaterials and macromolecules. Combining intelligently implemented technologies with in-depth industry applications knowledge and support, Malvern provides customers with the competitive advantage they demand.

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