Polymer Characterization:  Measures Linked to Product Performance and Current Challenges for Innovation

There are various phases for characterization of polymers, from Discovery and Synthesis, to Use and Performance, to End of Life.  Each phase may need different levels of characterization.  Various analytical measurement techniques are available to support the different phases from bulk measures to high end measures that pushing the limits of detection.  Highlighted will be real examples from P&G focused on Use and Performance showcasing the Analytical Tools used detection, visualization, and recycled packaging.  Additionally, current challenges in characterization, such as polymers are often not pure single molecules, but made up of a mixture of like molecules will also be discussed.  Two approaches will be highlighted towards creating “polymer standards” for better fingerprinting of industrial relevant polymers.