| Abstract: | The results of a numerical calculation which extends Scheraga's calculation on the non-Newtonian behavior of the viscosity factor v of rigid ellipsoid solutions are given here and compared to experimental data obtained on different poly(γ-benzyl L -glutamate) samples in helical configuration, over a wide range of molecular weight, up to 980,000. Relations for the axial ratio p, the rotary diffusion constant D, and a test of the deformability of the polymer under shear, are given as functions of the shear-rate dependence of the intrinsic viscosity. The experimental behavior under shear shows that PBLG becomes somewhat flexible in dichloroethane, but not in m-cresol. The dimensions calculated from the viscometric results suggest discrete changes in the length per monomeric unit of the helix at different well defined molecular weights. |
