Christoph Pielen

PVC Fusion and Stabilty Testing on a Torque Rheometer

Abstract

The fusion behavior and thermal stability tests on a torque rheometer with a mixing measuring head in compliance with ASTM D2538 are considered two of the most important test methods in the industry regarding the formulation development of rigid and flexible PVC.

This presentation gives insightful operational tips for both test procedures and best practices for consistent and reliable results. Understanding the data and picking the right characteristic points is at times challenging due to operator bias if it is not done automatically. New generations of drive units, software and mixer enhancements such as added safety features will round off the best approach to those critical tests.

About the Speaker

Christoph Pielen studied Mechanical Engineering - Specialization of plastics processing engineering - at the RWTH Aachen University, Germany.

• 2002-2008: Institute of Plastics Processing (IKV) at RWTH Aachen University. Development & testing of new rubber compounds and rubber foam extrusion.
• 2012-2014: Brabender GmbH, Germany. He joined the team to support international technical sales and customer service as an application specialist.
• 2014- 2019: Brabender CWB, USA. He took over the responsibility as the laboratory manger - chemical division.
• November 2019, Brabender CWB, USA. He was assigned to lead the company as the new President
• Active member ASTM including D20 (plastics), D11 (rubber), and D24 (carbon black)