Introduction to Thermal Analysis

Thermal analysis is a branch of materials science where the properties of materials are studied as they change with temperature.

Several methods are commonly used - these are distinguished from one another by the property which is measured:

•Differential thermal analysis (DTA): temperature difference

•Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC): heat difference

•Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA): mass

•Thermomechanical analysis (TMA): dimension

•Dilatometry (DIL): volume

•Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) : mechanical stiffness & damping

•Dielectric thermal analysis (DEA): dielectric permittivity & loss factor

•Evolved gas analysis (EGA) : gaseous decomposition products

•Thermo-optical analysis(TOA) : optical properties

Simultaneous Thermal Analysis (STA) generally refers to the simultaneous application of Thermogravimetry (TGA) and Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to one and the same sample in a single instrument. The test conditions are perfectly identical for the TGA and DSC signals (same atmosphere, gas flow rate, vapor pressure of the sample, heating rate, thermal contact to the sample crucible and sensor, radiation effect, etc.). The information gathered can even be enhanced by coupling the STA instrument to an Evolved Gas Analyzer (EGA) like Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) or Mass Spectometry (MS).

Common areas of application include:

•Biomaterials

•Food

•Pharmaceuticals

•Polymers & rubbers

•Glasses & ceramics

•Electrical components

•Building materials

•Catalysis

•Fossil fuels