A critical evaluation of the single‐point determination of intrinsic viscosity

Abstract

Abstract The general validity of four single‐point methods for intrinsic viscosity ([η]) determination is verified to be unacceptable even for dilute polymer solutions. Also, a direct method based on a truncated version of Huggins equation is shown to be less practical in that it involves advanced experimentation and is valid only at sufficiently low concentrations. In view of the shortcoming and sophistication of the above procedures, an effective approach is introduced to resolve these problems. This novel computation expresses the Huggins coefficient in terms of [η], and the associated equations are calibrated against the polymer system of interest. This procedure is tested using various polymer solutions with results compatible with those acquired by other means. The advantage of the proposed technique is discussed.