Shear History Extensional Rheology Experiment - Reflight

SHERE-R is the reflight of the SHERE investigation (PSI-105). SHERE and SHERE-R provide complementary measurements for the same fluid without particles. SHERE is designed to investigate the effect of preshearing (rotation) on the stress and strain response of a polymer fluid (a complex fluid containing long chains of polymer molecules) being stretched in microgravity. The fundamental understanding and measurement of the extensional rheology of complex fluids is important for understanding containerless processing, an important operation for fabrication of parts (such as adhesives or fillers) using elastomeric materials on future exploration missions. This knowledge can be applied to controlling and improving Earth-based manufacturing processes, as well.