Perestroika effect. A novel example of electroviscosity

A novel type of rotary viscometer was constructed for rheological studies in an high intensity electric field. The title effect was observed for 1,4‐dioxane containing small but defined amounts of certain compounds. The application of the electric field caused destruction of the molecular arrangement in the solution. It was manifested by a sudden, temporary decrease of viscosity. The original molecular order in the solution was then soon reconstructed, nevertheless the factor causing the disorder was not removed. The removal of the potential gradient evoked similar disorder in the solutions under study. This disorder turned again into original pattern as shown by restored viscosity. The magnitude of this “electric shock” roughly depended on dielectric constant and concentration of the compound added to 1,4‐dioxane.