Meaning
Chlorinated aromatic compounds dissolve high-density polyethylene and other resistant polymers during laboratory characterization. Pure ortho dichlorobenzene provides the high boiling point and polarity needed to maintain polymer solubility during gel permeation chromatography. Use of the solvent ends when the sample cools and the polymer precipitates out of the liquid.
Chemical Property
Liquid stability at 140 degrees Celsius makes the fluid suitable for characterizing polyolefins. While ortho dichlorobenzene is an effective solvent, it requires the addition of antioxidants to prevent thermo-oxidative degradation of the resin chain. High purity levels are essential to prevent phantom peaks in the detector signal.
Polymer Characterization
Samples are dissolved at concentration levels below one percent to ensure individual chains are separated. Consistent ortho dichlorobenzene quality allows for the precise measurement of the polydispersity index. Moulders use this information to understand how a resin lot will flow through a complex manifold or hot runner system.
Differences in the molecular weight distribution impact the final strength and shrinkage of the moulded part. The solvent also enables the extraction of additives like UV stabilizers for quantitative analysis.
Laboratory Safety
Specialized extraction hoods and nitrile gloves are mandatory when handling these halogenated liquids. Proper ortho dichlorobenzene disposal follows hazardous waste regulations.
