With our density gradient columns it is possible to measure the density of a polymeric sample. The principle of a Davenport density column is simple and accurate: two different organic “solvents” with different densities are mixed in such a way that a density profile over the height of the column is obtained. By applying floaters with a predefined density to the column a calibration curve can be prepared. Polymeric samples with unknown densities can now be measured.
The use of the right “solvents” is essential for a good measurement. The polymeric sample shouldn’t dissolve or swell in the “solvents”. So, in fact we need non-solvents for the specific polymeric samples. Next to that a combination of “solvents” should be found with different densities and good miscibility in a specific density range. We can measure the following polymeric samples (pellets, yarns, etc).

Material	Density range
PET	1289 – 1370 and 1330 – 1420 and 1360 – 1450
Polyamide	1030 – 1150 and 1130 – 1175
Polyacrylonitrile	1140 – 1280
Aramid	1415 – 1480
PEF
PLA
Carbon fiber	1500 – 2500
Cellulose	1440 – 1560

The preparation of a Davenport density column is laborious and time consuming. Thereafter the column can be used for several weeks to months depending on the intensity of use. After a certain time period the gradient is disturbed and a new column has to be prepared.
Semi-crystalline materials can quenched in liquid nitrogen in order to measure the amorphous density of a material.