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Thermal Analysis Techniques
Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA)
Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA) is a technique used to measure the change in weight of a sample as a function of temperature or time. It is a type of thermal analysis that provides valuable information about the thermal stability, composition, and decomposition behaviour of materials. TGA is widely used in various industries for material characterization, quality control, and product development.
In TGA, a small sample is placed in a precision balance inside a furnace with a controlled atmosphere. The furnace temperature is then programmed to increase at a specific rate, or it can be held constant for isothermal experiments. As the temperature changes, the sample may undergo physical or chemical transformations, such as dehydration, oxidation, or decomposition, resulting in weight changes. The weight of the sample is continuously monitored and recorded as a function of temperature or time, generating a TGA curve.
The TGA curve displays the weight loss or weight gain of the sample plotted against temperature or time. Significant steps or slopes in the curve indicate weight changes, which can be correlated with specific thermal events or reactions occurring in the sample. The first derivative of the TGA curve, known as the Derivative Thermogravimetric (DTG) curve, can provide additional information about the temperatures at which maximum weight changes occur.
- Thermal stability analysis
- Oxidation resistance studies
- Composite material characterization
- Polymer degradation profiles
- Analysis of coatings and adhesives
- Lubricant decomposition studies
- Catalyst characterization
- Thermal stability of reactants and products
- Decomposition kinetics
- Analysis of electronic components
- Polymer degradation in electronic materials
- Outgassing studies
- Characterization of explosives and propellants
- Thermal stability of materials
- Coal and biomass analysis
- Thermal stability of energy materials
- Oxidation studies
- Forensic analysis of materials
- Characterization of evidence
- Analysis of phosphors and luminescent materials
- Thermal degradation studies
- Characterization of biocompatible materials
- Sterilization studies
- Polymer degradation
- Drug decomposition studies
- Excipient analysis
- Thermal stability of formulations
- Compositional analysis
- Thermal stability studies
- Impurity detection
- Analysis of thin films
- Polymer degradation in semiconductor materials
- Outgassing studies
- Characterization of insulating materials
- Thermal stability of components
- Small sample size required (typically a few milligrams)
- Applicable to a wide range of materials (solids, liquids, powders, composites)
- Quantitative analysis of weight changes
- Ability to detect multiple thermal events and transitions
- Can be combined with other analytical techniques (e.g., FTIR, MS) for evolved gas analysis
- Versatile temperature range (ambient to 1000°C or higher)
- Sample size: Typically 5-50 mg, depending on the instrument and analysis requirements
- Sample form: Solid, liquid, or powder samples can be analyzed
- Sample preparation: Minimal preparation is required, but samples should be homogeneous and free from contaminants