Masterclass Rheology – Deep dive into material flow behavior to improve processing and application
This Masterclass is aimed at obtaining a profound understanding of rheology and its added value to improve material processing and product performance. The course combines the fundamentals of rheology, basic definitions, industrial examples, calculations and measurements in the lab.
Rheology describes the deformation and flow behaviour of liquid and soft solid materials. By examining the relationship between stress and deformation, rheology connects a material’s intrinsic properties to its overall performance. Rheology hence presents a valuable tool to understand, model, and predict the behaviour of complex materials.
Goals
Through this masterclass, participants will be able to:
- Understand the fundamentals of rheology and its relevance across various industrial applications, including polymer processing.
- Perform rheological measurements using the most appropriate advanced instrumentation and identify common pitfalls to ensure reliable data.
- Interpret rheological data and curves to extract key parameters such as viscosity, storage modulus, loss modulus, and extensional properties.
- Establish the relationship between rheological parameters and processing conditions, including their impact on product performance and end-use properties.
- Apply rheological concepts to polymer extrusion processes, including pressure drop calculations, shear stress estimation, and shear heating analysis.
Target audience
This course is aimed at professionals looking to better understand material behaviour under different conditions for design and quality control.
- Engineers and Scientists working in materials science, chemical engineering, polymer processing, or mechanical engineering.
- R&D Specialists and Lab Technicians involved in developing new materials or optimizing processes.
- Process Engineers in industries such as plastics, rubber, food, pharmaceuticals, and coatings.
Program
Session 1 – General introduction to rheology
This introductory session provides a comprehensive overview of rheology and its relevance across diverse application domains. Participants will gain insight into fundamental principles, measurement techniques, and interpretation of rheological data.
Topics Covered:
- Definition and scope of rheology: Understanding material flow and deformation; key application areas of rheology in industry and research.
- Rheological testing methods: Principles and interpretation of rotational, oscillatory, capillary, and extensional measurements.
- Common pitfalls in rheological testing: Sources of error and best practices for reliable data acquisition.
- Industrial case studies: Practical examples including UV curing systems, powder rheology, and extensional flow behaviour.
- Hands-on practical session: Performing rotational and oscillatory measurements using state-of-the-art rheometers.
Session 2 – Rheology in polymer extrusion
This advanced session focuses on the application of rheological principles in polymer extrusion processes. Participants will learn how rheology informs polymer extrusion process design, optimization, and troubleshooting.
Topics Covered:
- Viscosity models for polymers: Understanding shear-thinning, non-Newtonian behaviour, and temperature dependence.
- Fundamental calculations: Pressure drop, shear stress, and shear heating in extrusion systems.
- Numerical simulation tools to complement experimental rheology for process optimization.
- Inline rheology monitoring techniques.
- Hands-on practical session:
- Capillary rheometry and interpretation of extrusion-related rheological data.
- Demonstrating a rheological simulation applied to polymer extrusion.
- Demonstration of inline rheology monitoring.
Lecturers
- Prof. Frederik Desplentere, Propolis Research Group, KU Leuven
- Bart Buffel, Rheology & Polymer Scientist, Eastman
Practical
Dates and location
- Tuesday 13 and 20 October 2026, from 13.30h until 17.30h, including coffee break.
- KU Leuven Campus Bruges, Spoorwegstraat 12, 8200 Brugge
Registration
Register online before 6 October 2026.
- The registration fee for both sessions is €450.
- The registration fee for one session is €250.
- Upon registering multiple participants from the same organisation, you receive 10% discount.
Payment: account number IBAN BE31 2850 2133 2955 (PUC - KU Leuven Continue), with reference vgs 400/0028/97410 + name participant(s).
SME
Save up to 30% on your registration fee. As a training institution recognized by the Flemish Government, we accept payments via the SME portfolio. Our approval number is DV.O102270. When completing your application, you choose 'Duurzaamheid' as the theme and 'Efficiënt materiaalgebruik' as the subtheme/advice.