Measuring device for precise evaluation of torsional creep and recovery data

An apparatus has been designed and built up to determine the shear creep compliance and viscosity with high accuracy in a wide range of temperature and time. The characteristic feature of this apparatus is the possibility to measure directly the recoverable compliance and to determine the steady state recoverable complianceJ_e. Disturbing instrumental forces are minimized by use of a magnetic bearing. The torque is applied inductively by a modified three phase asynchronous motor. The torsional angle is measured with a laser beam reflected from a mirror to an electro-optical measuring device. Sample thermostating is performed by radiation in a heating chamber, which allows observation of the specimen during measurement.First results of creep and creep recovery measurements are reported, which were carried out on a technical polystyrene above the glass rubbery transition.Dedicated to Prof. Dr. H. Janeschitz-Kriegl on the occasion of his 60th birthday.