Experimental study and verification of the residence time distribution using fluorescence spectroscopy and color measurement

We report on the inline measurement of residence time (RT) and residence time distribution (RTD) by means of fluorescence spectroscopy [1] and optical color measurements [2]. Measurements of thermoplastics in a variety of single-screw extruders were conducted. To assess the influence of screw configurations, screw speeds and mass throughput on the RT and RTD, tracer particles were introduced into the feeding section and the RT was measured inline in the plasticization unit. Using special measurement probes that can be inserted into 1/2" - 20 UNF (unified fine thread) bore holes, the mixing ability of either the whole plasticization unit or selected screw regions, e.g., mixing parts, can be validated during the extrusion process. The measurement setups complement each other well, and their combined use can provide further insights into the mixing behavior of single-screw plasticization units.