Chain of Custody Records in Recycled Textile Compliance
Chain of custody compliance demands batch-level cross-referencing of transaction certificates against intake weigh tickets and laboratory chemical screening.
Intrinsic Viscosity Testing
Polymer Characterization
Laboratory measurement of the flow rate of polymer solutions through capillary tubes determines the molecular weight of synthetic fibers. Utilizing intrinsic viscosity testing allows polyester producers to evaluate the raw polymer before melt spinning. This test predicts the mechanical properties of the extruded yarn.
Test Procedure
Dissolving the polyester chip in a specific solvent mixture is the first step in measuring flow time. During intrinsic viscosity testing, the sample is kept at a constant temperature in a water bath while it passes through a glass viscometer. The resulting value relates directly to the chain length of the polymer.
Extrusion Quality
Consistent molecular weight of the polymer melt ensures stable yarn spinning and uniform fiber draw ratios. Low values found during intrinsic viscosity testing indicate that polymer degradation has occurred, which will lead to frequent yarn breakages on the spinning and texturizing lines. This monitoring ensures high tenacity fibers.
Consignment Testing
Quality certificates for recycled polyester yarn require verifiable polymer chain measurements to guarantee material performance. Technicians perform intrinsic viscosity testing on incoming polymer chips to ensure that the batch meets the standards required for high speed yarn texturizing. Variations in viscosity can cause uneven dye uptake, creating streaks in the finished woven fabric.
This test is a primary gatekeeper for raw material acceptance.