1.1 This practice covers the determination of the dilute solution viscosity of polymers. There are several ASTM standards (Test Methods D789, D1243, D1601, and D4603, and Practice D3591) that describe dilute solution viscosity procedures for specific polymers, such as nylon, poly(vinyl chloride), polyethylene, and poly(ethylene terephthalate). This practice is written to augment these standards when problems arise with which the specific procedure is not concerned, or when no standard is available for the polymer under investigation.

1.2 This practice is applicable to all polymers that dissolve completely without chemical reaction or degradation to form solutions that are stable with time at a temperature between ambient and 150°C. Results are usually expressed as relative viscosity (viscosity ratio), inherent viscosity (logarithmic viscosity number), or intrinsic viscosity (limiting viscosity number) (see 3.1).

1.3 For polyamides, relative viscosity values by this procedure are not equivalent to those determined by Test Methods D789.

1.4 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.

Note 1—This standard and ISO 1628, "Plastics-Determination of Viscosity Number and Limiting Viscosity Number," are technically equivalent.