Viscosity
Updated January 8, 2023
Viscosity is the measurement of a fluid’s internal resistance to flow. This is typically designated in units of centipoise or poise but can be expressed in other acceptable measurements as well. Some conversion factors are as follows:
100 Centipoise = 1 Poise
1 Centipoise = 1 mPa s (Millipascal Second)
1 Poise = 0.1 Pa s (Pascal Second)
Centipoise = Centistoke x Specific Gravity
Viscosity of Newtonian and non-Newtonian Fluids
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The viscosity of a substance is influenced by its temperature and pressure. In general,
a substance’s viscosity decreases as its temperature increases and increases as
its pressure increases.
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|
Substance |
Viscosity (cP) |
Drops per mL |
|
Acetone |
0.3-0.7 |
30-50 |
|
Methanol |
0.6-0.9 |
30-40 |
|
Water |
1.0 |
20-30 |
|
Ethanol |
1.2 |
25-30 |
|
Propylene glycol |
1.4 |
25-35 |
|
Ethylene glycol |
1.5 |
20-30 |
|
Milk |
2.5-3.5 |
20-30 |
|
DMSO |
3.5-4.0 |
20-25 |
|
Sesame oil |
40-60 |
30-40 |
|
Vegetable oil |
70-100 |
20-30 |
|
Olive oil |
80-120 |
20-30 |
|
Coconut oil |
350-500 |
15-20 |
|
Castor oil |
1,400-1,700 |
10-15 |
|
Honey |
1,500-2,000 |
15-20 |
