Rheological Properties of L64 Tri-block Copolymer in Aqueous and p-xylene Solutions

The rheological properties of Pluronic L64 in aqueous solutions at various temperatures and concentrations have been investigated. Changes in temperature and concentration cause structural and rheological modifications in Pluronic L64 in aqueous solutions as well as the appearance of a micellization process. For concentrations between 10 and 20 mg/mL, the Pluronic L64 showed a Newtonian or liquid-like behavior at various temperatures. However, for concentrations ranging between 30 and 40 mg/mL, the solutions showed a Newtonian behavior for temperatures below 55°C and a non-Newtonian behavior at 60°C. In p-xylene solutions, the solution exhibits a Newtonian behavior for all the concentrations and temperatures studied. It is believed that the Newtonian behavior of the binary Pluronic L64/p-xylene is due to the nonformation of complex conformations as direct or reverse micelles.