Smithers invests in new GPC equipment
Monday, 15 November 2021
Smithers, a leading provider of testing, consulting, information, and compliance services, has invested in an Agilent Technologies 1260 Infinity II GPC/SEC System to enhance its materials testing and polymer characterisation services.
Smithers’ commitment to offering clients in a wide range of sectors, including aerospace, oil and gas, and medical device industries the best insights, data and customer experience is highlighted by this new investment. Our Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) expert Dr Jason Davies, who provides invaluable data, analytical expertise and technical support said, “This new GPC equipment will allow us to continue and improve on the timely delivery of polymer molecular weight characterisation for our clients.”
The new equipment includes a multi-detector suite, which can provide further insights than possible before, including even greater detailed molecular weight data and comparison of long-chain branching structures. In addition, the combination of both DRI and UV-Vis analysis allows for copolymer analysis where only one copolymer component has a chromophore.
GPC, also referred to as Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC), is an advanced analytical technique that enables the characterisation of polymer molecular weight and branching structure. Polymer molecular weight and structure can be influenced by the rate and degree of polymerisation, thus affecting processing behaviour and the physical performance of the finished product.
“We look forward to continuing to grow our relationships with clients around the globe and ensure we continue to be best-placed to provide accurate data, on time with high touch.” said Dr Davies.
This investment in Smithers’ polymer testing operations is part of a suite of materials testing and support including:
- Chemical analysis of polymers
- Physical materials testing
- Product testing
- Life prediction and aging
- Polymer technical consultancy
