could i use Mooney Rehometer

[Kiran Vibhandik]

Hi,

i want to test viscosity of sheet molding compound for that could i use mooney rheometer?
Thanks.

[DwightDixon]

You could, but you might need to make up your own procedures. The standard sample cavity will make a finished puck that will be hard to demold from the core when you use sheet molded fiberglas. The method of loading the cavity could also have an effect, as could the glass content and orientation. You might need to invent a new cavity and core configuration. SMC is a 30 year old technology and there should be some research papers out there to search out. The material suppliers might also have some good data for you so you do not have to reinvent the wheel.

[Len]

Use release film between your sample and the platens. You'll get a cure histogram of the sample which can be used to model your process. I'd also consider using a moving die rheometer for this study. W/ release film the sample will come out easily!

I think the film is Mylar (PET).

Len