Density Measurement in Polyethylene Powder

Brimrose NIR spectrometer is an excellent method for on-line or off-line measuring the physical, chemical and mechanical properties of polyolefins. The picture on the left shows that a Brimrose Free Space spectrometer was used to measure density in polyethylene powder. A Free Space optical module is mounted to the pipe in which the polyethylene powder is transported. Spectral data is collected during the transport and the density measurement determined.

Real-time Chemical Property Monitoring

Additives such as Irganox, Irgafos, Tinuin, calcium stearate and zinc searate can be monitored in real-time. The picture on the left shows that Brimrose Luminar 3010 Process analyzer with fiber optic cable and high temperature and high pressure transmission probes was used to measure chemical properties directly in the extruder or through the port on rheometer. Other measurements can be obtained on soluble components such as xylene.

 Mechanical Property Monitoring

An important mechanical property in many polymer applications is Flexural Modulus. In the picture to the left a Brimrose Free Space spectrometer, mounted in the transport line and collects spectra. A model is applied to the spectra and Flexural Modulus is determined. The resulting data can then be used by the DCS. Brimrose NIR spectrometers are "adaptable" to real process environments via varying types of electronic communication:

• Ethernet Communication
• Modbus protocol (RS232/485/422)
• 4-20mA Outputs