NIST Standard for determining melt flow rate in polymers. Melt flow rate is widely used in polymer technology as a product specification because the value, including the load and temperature under which it is obtained, gives an indication of the processing properties of the polymer.
Polyethylene, branched (PE) is a solvent-soluble polyethylene reference material useful for polymer processing studies, melt flow rate testing, viscosity reference workflows, and comparative evaluation of polyethylene materials. This product has a limiting viscosity number of 0.8132 dL/g in 1-chloronaphthalene.
Key Properties
- NIST Standard for determining melt flow rate in polymers
- Branched polyethylene reference material
- Product Number: 08277
- CAS Number: 9002-88-4
- Synonym: PE
- Formula: (C2H4)x
- Size: 1 g
- Limiting viscosity number: 0.8132 dL/g in 1-chloronaphthalene
- Solvent-soluble in selected high-temperature solvent systems
- Physical state: Solid
Applications
Melt Flow Rate Testing
Used as a reference material for determining melt flow rate in polymer testing workflows where processing behavior is evaluated under defined load and temperature conditions.
Polymer Processing Studies
Useful in research involving polyethylene processing behavior, thermoplastic flow properties, and comparative evaluation of polymer materials.
Viscosity Reference Workflows
May be used in solvent-based viscosity studies involving polyethylene materials, including work using 1-chloronaphthalene.
Quality Control & Method Development
Suitable for laboratories developing, verifying, or comparing polymer test methods related to melt flow rate, solution viscosity, and polyethylene characterization.
Solubility & Compatibility
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Soluble in: Xylene, tetralin, and TCE at 50-60°
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Solvent-soluble in: 1-chloronaphthalene, 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene, and decalin above 60°
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Polymer type: Branched polyethylene
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Reference use: Melt flow rate, viscosity, and polymer processing evaluation
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Compatibility: Performance depends on solvent system, temperature, concentration, heating profile, and test method conditions
Final solution behavior and test performance should be evaluated under the intended analytical or processing method conditions.
Preparation Tips
- Select a compatible solvent and temperature range based on the target test method.
- Use controlled heating and mixing when preparing solvent-based polyethylene solutions.
- Allow sufficient time for dissolution in high-temperature solvent systems.
- Document solvent, concentration, temperature, heating time, and method parameters for reproducible results.
- Follow the applicable melt flow rate or viscosity test procedure for load, temperature, and instrument conditions.
Handling & Storage
- Exercise normal care when handling this material.
- Store at room temperature.
- Keep container tightly closed when not in use.
- Store in a cool, well-ventilated place.
- Use standard laboratory handling practices and appropriate PPE.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Polyethylene, branched used for?
This branched polyethylene product is used as a reference material for melt flow rate testing, polymer processing studies, viscosity workflows, and polyethylene characterization.
2. What does melt flow rate indicate?
Melt flow rate is used in polymer technology as a product specification and provides an indication of polymer processing properties under defined load and temperature conditions.
3. What is the limiting viscosity number of this product?
The listed limiting viscosity number is 0.8132 dL/g in 1-chloronaphthalene.
4. What solvents is this branched polyethylene soluble in?
This product is listed as soluble in xylene, tetralin, and TCE at 50-60°. The product description also notes solubility in 1-chloronaphthalene, 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene, and decalin above 60°.
5. Is this product hazardous?
The product page lists this material as harmless under normal precautions, and the SDS lists it as not classified under GHS. Refer to the SDS for complete safety guidance.
6. How should Polyethylene, branched be stored?
Store at room temperature, keep the container tightly closed, and use standard laboratory handling practices.
Safety & Documentation
This product is listed as harmless under normal precautions and not classified under GHS. Exercise normal care when handling this material and refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS), product documentation, and Certificate of Analysis for safety, handling, and lot-specific guidance.
