Viscosity of polystyrene near the glass transition

A quantitative explanation is given for the apparent viscosity increase with increasing capillary shear rate for polystyrene at temperatures approaching the glass transition, T_g. Possible shifts in T_g as a function of the parameters shear rate, frequency, and pressure are interrelated to viscosity changes. Experimentally, the Instron capillary rheometer and the Weissenberg rheogoniometer provided a means for uncoupling the variables for individual consideration. Calculated and experimental data for the apparent viscosity as a function of the given parameters are presented and discussed. The explanation of the apparent viscosity increase in capillary flow can be quantitatively explained through the pressure dependence of T_g. Brief mention is made of the pressure effects on the Bagley and Rabinowitsch corrections normally made in capillary measurements.