Residence time distribution in a commercial twin‐screw extruder

Abstract

Abstract The residence time distribution of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) polymers in a counterrotating twin screw commercial extruder was determined and analyzed. The experimental technique involved the use of manganese dioxide as a tracer after being neutron activated and was injected into the extruder during normal operation without interrupting the poly(vinyl chloride) compound production. The experimental results enabled us to better understand the flow and mixing conditions in the extruder.