Abstract: A method for preparing coated binder units, wherein the coated binder units comprise a core of binder coated with a layer of coating material, is disclosed. The method comprises steps of: (a) co-extruding the binder and the coating material, thereby producing an extrudate wherein the binder is coated with a layer of coating material; and (b) optionally, shaping the extrudate, into coated binder units.

Abstract: The present invention refers to an on-line rotational/oscillatory rheometrical device inserted in the barrel of an extruder (1), composed of a main body (2), a cleaning ring (5) and a lower support (6), kept at a constant temperature, and a set of plates, upper (3) and lower (4) with an adjustable separation, with the upper plate being animated with a rotating or oscillating movement, via a coupling to a rotation/measuring head of a commercial controlled-stress rheometer. The rotation of the ensemble allows a sample of material to be collected from the interior of the extruder and its subsequent rheological characterisation in the device.

Abstract: The present invention refers to an on-line rotational/oscillatory rheometrical device inserted in the barrel of an extruder (1), composed of the main body (2), a cleaning ring (5) and a lower support (6), kept at a constant temperature, and a set of plates, upper (3) and lower (4) with an adjustable separation, with the upper one being animated with a rotating or oscillating movement, via a coupling to a rotation/measuring head of a commercial controlled-stress rheometer. The rotation of the ensemble allows a sample of material to be collected from the interior of the extruder and its subsequent Theological characterisation in the device.