DISCOVERY CORE RHEOMETER

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INTRODUCING the
DISCOVERY CORE RHEOMETER
The new Discovery™ Core Rheometer empowers every user to perform rheological measurements, guiding formulation development, optimizing performance and ensuring
product quality. The Core Rheometer is the first system to combine wide-ranging measurements of viscosity and viscoelasticity with streamlined, walk-up usability. The new
RheoGuide™ user interface enables complete operation directly from the touchscreen, with direction, illustration and validation at every step.

Whether you are new to rheology, upgrading your quality control testing, or expanding capabilities to meet growing demands, the Core Rheometer empowers your lab
to discover insights into your materials’ behavior needed to advance your goals.

Discovery Core Rheometer 3

 DISCOVER INSIGHTS beyond VISCOSITY
While viscometers report only a single viscosity value within Shear-Thinning Viscosity

a limited range, the Core Rheometer captures the complete

viscosity profile, representing material behavior across all 1
relevant conditions. Complex fluids like suspensions, emulsions,
gels, pastes and slurries are non-Newtonian. Their viscosity
2

Log Viscosity
changes with the applied shear rate and time; it is not a single
value. Characterizing the full range of viscosity is critical to
understand flow behavior under real-world conditions.

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Rheometer Advantages:
• Accuracy and precision
• Range of measurement
10-5 10-4 10-3 10-2 10-1 100 101 102 103 104 105 106
• Controlled shear rate Shear Rate (s-1)
• Replicate process conditions 1 High viscosity at low shear rates impacts sag and leveling of coatings and
• Small sample volume maintains uniform distribution in dispersions by preventing separation under
gravity during storage.
• Rapid temperature control

2 With increasing shear rate, viscosity decreases. This enabling easy dispensing
whether by pouring from a can, pumping through a pipe or squeezing from
packaging.

3 High shear rates replicate applications such as coating onto a substrate or

spreading a topical product on the skin, ensuring successful processing and
consumer experience.

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 DISCOVERY CORE RHEOMETER VISCOELASTICITY

Topical Pharmaceutical

104

Amplitude

Storage Modulus G’ (Pa)

Storage Modulus G’ (Pa)
In this plot, a topical ointment measured with
low stress in the linear viscoelastic region shows
103
solid-like behavior (G’ > G”). Increasing stress
causes the ointment to begin to flow, indicating
a yield stress of 66 Pa, key information for
ensuring effective dispensing, spreading and
stability.

100
100 101 102
Oscillation Stress σ (Pa)

Body Wash

103
Materials ranging from weakly structured dispersions to
stiff gels or pastes exhibit both liquid-like and solid-like
102
Frequency
Storage Modulus G’ (Pa)
Storage Modulus G’ (Pa)

behavior, not available from traditional viscometry.

Varying the oscillatory frequency characterizes
The Core Rheometer’s oscillatory measurements quantify 101
viscoelasticity over different time scales. A liquid
viscoelasticity - Storage Modulus G’ (elastic behavior), soap exhibits fluid-like behavior (G” > G’) at rest,
Loss Modulus G” (viscous behavior) and Tan d (damping). 100 but under very short time scales, elastic behavior
These key metrics aid in optimizing formulations, evaluating dominates (G’ > G”). This impacts a consumer’s
stability, and ensuring consistency in production. experience and can only be quantified using
10-1

oscillatory rheology. ​

10-2
10-1 100 101 102
Angular Frequency ω (rad/s)

Discovery Core Rheometer 5

 DISCOVERY CORE RHEOMETER CORE MEASUREMENT TECHNOLOGY

Precision air bearings

Air bearings eliminate the mechanical friction of ball bearing designs, extending
torque sensitivity down to 0.5 µN.m for flow measurements, and 0.1 µN.m for oscillation
measurements.

The Core Rheometer’s torque sensitivity enables measurements of viscosities as low as 1 cP,
low shear rates and yield stresses, and viscoelasticity of weakly-structured fluids.

Optical encoder
Precisely measure rotational velocity (Shear rate) and angular deformation (Strain)

Drag cup motor

Flexibility to perform shear rheology in controlled stress, rate or strain modes

Robust design
Streamline operations and expedite workflow with the Core Rheometer: safely clean liquid
samples in place, without the need to remove tools from the rheometer.

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 DISCOVERY CORE RHEOMETER CORE TEMPERATURE TECHNOLOGY

Temperature control is key for accurate rheology data to ensure data reproducibility and evaluate materials’ behavior Temperature Range
under real-world conditions. The Core Rheometer’s integrated Peltier system provides precise, rapid temperature control.
Equilibration time is reduced by up to 60% compared to typical viscometer configurations, minimizing down time between
25 ˚C: 1004 cP
different measurements. Built-in air cooling eliminates the need for a liquid circulator, reducing cost, simplifying operation,
and saving valuable bench space. 1000

Viscosity η* (cP)
50 ˚C: 256 cP

100
1 10 100
Shear Rate γ (1/s)

A silicone oil certified reference material measured at 25 °C

and 50 °C, using the Insulated Solvent Trap, shows viscosity
results within 5% of the reference values (dotted lines),
verifying the accuracy of sample temperature

Motor oil viscosity at varying temperatures

1000
Motor Oil 1
Motor Oil 2
800

Viscosity η (cP)
600

400

200

0
Configuration -10 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Temperature T (˚C)

Peltier Plate -10 °C to 200 °C

The two motor oils above show low viscosity at the elevated
temperature of an active engine. However, their increased
Peltier Concentric Cylinder 0 °C to 150 °C
viscosity at low temperature is a key consideration when
developing products for use in winter conditions ​

Discovery Core Rheometer 7

 DISCOVERY CORE RHEOMETER PELTIER PLATE GEOMETRIES

Parallel plate geometries offer versatility for wide ranging

materials such as liquids, dispersions, creams and emulsions,
gels and pastes, available in sandblasted or crosshatched
surface finishes to prevent slip. Cone geometries provide a
uniform shear rate, ideal for unfilled liquids. Both plate and
cone geometries provide the convenience of small sample
volumes (<2 mL) and easy cleaning.

SmartSwap2 geometries: Cones and parallel plates, available in a range of dimensions, materials, and surfaces to meet every need

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 DISCOVERY CORE RHEOMETER PELTIER PLATE FEATURES

Add an Insulated Solvent Trap to prevent drying

during measurements. The two split-covers
integrate with compatible geometries to create an
evaporation barrier. The conductive interior and
insulating exterior promote temperature uniformity
at extended temperatures.

Below, an acrylic paint’s viscosity at 10 sec-1

is measured both with and without a solvent
trap cover. Uncovered, paint drying at the edge
increases torque and presents as an increase
in viscosity. With the solvent trap in place, drying
effects are eliminated, and paint viscosity is
measured accurately.

Quick-Change Plates make sample loading easy with a raised Paint Viscosity, with and without Solvent Trap
step for simplified sample trimming, critical for accurate data. 3400
Quick-Change plates match the upper geometry’s size and
surface finish, and mount directly to the Peltier with a unique 3300
tool-free and self-aligning system, swapped in seconds to
Uncovered
support multiple sample types. Viscosity η* (cP) 3200

3100

3000

With Insulated Solvent Trap

2900

2800
0 2 4 6 8 10
Step Time ts (min)

Discovery Core Rheometer 9

 DISCOVERY CORE RHEOMETER
CONCENTRIC CYLINDER GEOMETRIES

Configure your Core Rheometer with

concentric cylinders for enhanced sensitivity
to characterize viscosities as low as 1 cP, and
easy fool-proof sample loading perfect for
high-throughput labs.

A variety of upper rotors and lower cups are available to accommodate materials
and testing needs, including disposable cups for high-throughput testing.

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 DESIGNED to
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STREAMLINE EVERY STEP

1 Automatic gap control provides faster workflow and precise gap

positioning. The axial motor automatically raises and lowers the head
throughout the method and controls the test gap position with 0.1 um 2
resolution for accurate and reproducible results.

2 Touchscreen capabilities go beyond basic controls, providing a

new user experience ideal for high-throughput labs. Perform routine
measurements directly at the instrument without need for PC interaction.

3 Integrated lighting enhances visibility for easier, more reproducible

sample preparation leading to increased data accuracy and precision.
The sample is automatically spotlighted during user interaction, guiding
the operator and signaling test status.

4 Smart Swap™ 2 reader automatically identifies attached geometry,

recalls dimensions and stored calibrations, and validates geometry
aligns with the selected RheoGuide™ method. Smart Swap eliminates
common sources of error and enables more efficient operation.
3
5 Compact design incorporates electronics, Peltier and air-cooling heat
exchanger in one unit. Compared to modular systems with liquid
circulators, the Core Rheometer requires up to 75% less bench space.

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Discovery Core Rheometer 11
 EMPOWER your LAB with
RHEOGUIDE™ SOFTWARE
RheoGuide is your entry point to the world of rheology, directly from the Core Rheometer touchscreen.
Select a method from the app-style interface and follow instructions and illustrations through every step,
eliminating sources of operator error. Results are immediately available on the touchscreen, allowing
users to take immediate action, perfect for fast-paced environments.

Rheology testing improves quality and consistency by identifying variations not detected by viscometers,
preventing future problems and downstream costs. These insights used in R&D are now available to
QA/QC labs, with the ease of use of a viscometer.

Methods are customizable to incorporate every step of your standard operating procedure and
instantly indicate Pass or Fail based on your specifications. Test methods are easily synchronized across
labs worldwide with consistent operation and data you can trust to drive decisions and solutions.

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DISCOVERY CORE RHEOMETER RHEOGUIDE™ FEATURES AND BENEFITS

Walk up usability: Perform routine tests directly from the instrument touchscreen, from start to finish, without need to interact with the PC.

Guided operation: Pre-defined Methods and on-screen instructions and illustrations direct operator actions in a step-by-step workflow
enabling every user to perform successful rheology measurements with minimal training.

Validation throughout: Common sources of error are eliminated- the correct geometry is installed and calibrated, the sample
information is updated, and every step is complete. When operators never miss a step, data is more accurate.

Ensure operator safety: On-screen messages alert if the method exceeds safe-touch temperature with reminders for proper PPE.
RheoGuide prompts operator interactions when needed and disables interaction when the head is in motion.

Rapid results: Automated analysis results are displayed on the touchscreen immediately upon test completion, along with pass or fail
indication. Eliminating the need for routine manual data processing is ideal for fast-paced Quality Assurance/Quality Control testing labs.

Synchronize methods: Discovery Hybrid Rheometer methods directly transfer to Core Rheometers to replicate R&D’s measurements in
QC testing. Methods shared across instruments and sites help ensure every operator performs the same measurement.

Powered by TRIOS™ software: Customize RheoGuide methods and access all raw data files for additional analysis through TRIOS,
the popular software platform from TA Instruments.

Discovery Core Rheometer 13

 DISCOVERY CORE RHEOMETER TRIOS SOFTWARE
TRIOS is a state-of the art software platform using cutting-edge Unlock Direct Rheometer Controls
technology for instrument control, data collection and data The Core Rheometer offers more than routine testing – experienced users can switch from
RheoGuide mode to TRIOS Classic mode to directly control measurement parameters.
analysis for both rheology and thermal analysis. Customize
The intuitive user interface allows you to simply and effectively program experiments and
RheoGuide methods to incorporate every step of your standard move easily between modifying procedures and viewing and analyzing data.
operating procedure using the intuitive Method Builder.

Complete Data Analysis Capabilities

Every measurement made on the Core Rheometer, whether through RheoGuide or directly
in TRIOS, generates a unique data file containing all parameters and raw data for complete
traceability.

• Intuitive and flexible data visualization

• Extensive analysis capabilities, including mathematical models, curve fitting, statistics
• Batch Processing: Automated analysis and report generation
• Control Charts for monitoring trends in results over time
• Data export in JSON format for integration with LIMS
• Unlimited licenses: access and analyze your data from anywhere

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 DISCOVERY CORE RHEOMETER SPECIFICATIONS

Measurement Specifications Features and Technology

Minimum Torque 0.5 µN.m Precision Air Bearings

Maximum Torque 125 mN.m SmartSwap™ geometry identification

Torque Resolution 10 nN.m Integrated sample spotlight

Displacement Resolution 100 nrad Automatic gap positioning

Maximum Rotational Velocity 300 rad/s 18 cm touchscreen

Minimum Angular Frequency 10-4 rad/s TRIOS™ software

Maximum Angular Frequency 628 rad/s RheoGuide™ software

Motor Inertia < 25 µN.m.s2

Gap positioning speed 10 mm/s Test Modes

Dimensions 30 cm x 77 cm x 42 cm
Shear rate control
(width x height x depth) 11.8 in x 30.3 in x 16.3 in Flow
Stress control
Weight 34.5 kg (76 lb)
Strain control
Oscillation
Stress control
Peltier Plate Specifications
Creep-Recovery
Transient
Minimum Temperature -15 °C Stress Relaxation

Maximum Temperature 200 °C

Temperature Accuracy 0.1 °C Concentric Cylinder Specifications

Maximum Heating Rate 50 °C/minute
Minimum Temperature 0 °C°
Maximum Cooling Rate 30 °C/minute
Maximum Temperature 150 °C
Insulated Solvent Trap Optional
Temperature Accuracy 0.1 °C

Maximum Heating Rate 5 °C/minute

Maximum Cooling Rate 5 °C/minute

Disposable Cups Optional

Discovery Core Rheometer 15

 New Castle, DE USA Hüllhorst, Germany Shanghai, China
AMERICAS

EUROPE

ASIA & AUSTRALIA

Lindon, UT USA Eschborn, Germany Beijing, China

Wakefield, MA USA Elstree, United Kingdom Tokyo, Japan

Eden Prairie, MN USA Brussels, Belgium Seoul, South Korea

Chicago, IL USA Etten-Leur, Netherlands Taipei, Taiwan

Irvine, CA USA Paris, France Guangzhou, China

Montreal, Canada Barcelona, Spain Petaling Jaya, Malaysia

Toronto, Canada Milano, Italy Singapore

Mexico City, Mexico Warsaw, Poland Bangalore, India

São Paulo, Brazil Prague, Czech Republic Sydney, Australia

Solna, Sweden

Copenhagen, Denmark

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 TA Instruments Waters Corporation
Discovery, RheoGuide, TRIOS, SmartSwap, TA Instruments and Waters are trademarks of 159 Lukens Drive 34 Maple Street
Waters Corporation. New Castle, DE 19720 U.S.A. Milford, MA 01757 U.S.A.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
T: 1 302 427 4000 T: 1 508 478 2000
©2024 Waters Corporation. All rights reserved. F: 1 302 427 4041 F: 1 508 872 1990
September 2024 RH00004EN Rev. A [Link] [Link]