centipoise [cP] Unit Converter

Definition of centipoise [cP] unit

The centipoise (cP) is a unit of dynamic viscosity, describing a fluid’s resistance to flow under applied shear. One centipoise equals 0.001 pascal-second and is approximately the viscosity of water near room temperature.

History of centipoise [cP] unit

The centipoise derives from the poise, the CGS unit of dynamic viscosity, named for French physicist Jean Léonard Marie Poiseuille. The prefix centi- means one hundredth, so one centipoise equals one hundredth of a poise. The poise was introduced in the nineteenth century alongside studies of capillary flow and blood circulation. Although the SI unit pascal-second is now preferred scientifically, centipoise remains common because its values are convenient for ordinary liquids. Viscosity references, laboratories, engineering standards, and instruments continue using cP, often alongside millipascal-seconds (mPa·s), which have identical numerical values.

Applications of centipoise [cP] unit

Centipoise is widely used to report viscosities of water-based solutions, oils, paints, inks, lubricants, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, foods, and industrial chemicals. It helps specify pumping requirements, coating behavior, product texture, and formulation consistency. Motor oils, syrups, creams, and printing inks are commonly characterized in cP. Rotational viscometers often display results in centipoise, supporting convenient comparison with specifications and quality-control limits.

Complete list of centipoise [cP] unit conversion