This test is a sensitive measure of the degradation of cellulose resulting from the action of heat, light, acids, alkalies, oxidizing and reducing agents, and the like, used in its processing or purification. The intrinsic viscosity value may be converted to degree of polymerization (DP) or to intrinsic fluidity, if desired.

Solutions of cellulose are not Newtonian liquids; that is, their viscosity depends upon the rate-of-shear or velocity gradient during measurement. This effect is smaller for samples of low molecular mass (DP) and at low concentrations than for high-DP samples and at high concentrations. For the celluloses and concentrations included within the limits set forth in this test method, the effect of rate-of-shear is assumed to be negligible for referee purposes. For other conditions and for research purposes this assumption may be invalid, but to discuss ways of accounting for this effect is beyond the scope of the present test method.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the intrinsic viscosity of purified celluloses such as bleached wood pulps, cotton linters, and regenerated cellulose. It is applicable to all cellulose samples with an intrinsic viscosity of 15 dl/g or less. Most native (unpurified) celluloses have intrinsic viscosity values too high for measurement by this test method.

Note 1 - The use of cuprammonium hydroxide solution for regular viscosity determination is described in Method T 206 m-55 of the Technical Association of Pulp and Paper Industry on "Cuprammonium Disperse Viscosity of Pulp," and Joint Army-Navy Specifications JAN-C-206.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.