Methods / TGA

Thermogravimetric analysis

Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is an analytical method for measuring the mass of a sample as a function of time and/or temperature. Weight changes can be detected with an accuracy of a fraction of a microgram, which makes the precise determination of the smallest changes in physical and chemical properties possible.

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Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)

In TGA, the sample is heated at a controlled rate or kept at a controlled temperature while its mass is weighed with an extremely precise scale. The analysis provides information about phase transitions, absorption, adsorption, desorption, chemisorption, thermal decomposition, and solid-gas reactions. It can also be used as a characterization and compositional analysis method. As a result of the measurement, you will get the change in mass as a function of temperature and time. A simultaneous thermal analysis (TGA + DSC) can be performed upon request. The type of heating cycle can be tailored to your sample (temperature ranges from 25 °C to 1100 °C), with various options for the surrounding gas atmosphere (air, O2, and N2). Please disclose the aim of the measurement and the desired temperature program and atmosphere(s) upon ordering.
267 €
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Identification of an unknown sample

Measurlabs offers tailor-made analysis packages for unidentified samples. Our experts will formulate the needed analysis package based on the information provided by the customer. The formulated package aims to provide sufficient information to identify the sample components and their quantities. Most typically, the following methods are used to analyze unknown substances: CHNOS elemental analysis and TGA: These methods will provide information on the sample composition, mainly if the sample is organic or inorganic and if it has one or more constituents. XRD, XRF, ICP, and IC: These methods will be used to provide more detailed qualitative and quantitative information on the inorganic constituents of the sample. 1H & 13C NMR, and GC/HPLC-MS: These methods are used to identify and quantify organic constituents. Our whole analysis catalog can be used to analyze the sample if required. Please contact our experts to start building the unknown sample analysis package designed specifically for your needs. Please also note that the stated required sample amount is the preferred amount. Analysis of smaller sample quantities can also be conducted.
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Thermogravimetric analysis in a vacuum

Vacuum thermogravimetric analysis (vacuum TGA) is a specialized technique to study how materials behave at very low pressures, similar to those in space or certain industrial processes. This is in contrast to standard TGA, which is typically performed under atmospheric pressure. Vacuum TGA is used in various industries and is particularly useful for customers whose products or applications operate under reduced pressure conditions. Vacuum TGA provides detailed insights into the release of volatile substances, the breakdown of materials, and the emission of gases from various substances. Vacuum: up to 10^-4 mbar.
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The basics of TGA analysis

Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is used to measure weight changes in the sample as a function of temperature and/or time. TGA is conducted in a carefully controlled thermal environment to achieve reliable and reproducible results.

TGA measurement has many applications in physical and chemical characterization because of its precise weight change detection capability. TGA is suitable for both heating and cooling the sample. The atmosphere can also be modified, with the most common options being inert or oxygen-rich.

TGA diagram
Simplified schematic diagram of a thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA).

Types of thermogravimetric analysis

The three types of thermogravimetry are isothermal/static, quasistatic, and dynamic thermogravimetry. Isothermal thermogravimetry is known as the traditional type of thermogravimetry. The sample is weighed multiple times per second, and the measured weight is recorded as a function of time at a constant temperature.

Quasistatic thermogravimetry includes sequential steps of temperature changes with separative isothermal stints. The idea is to allow the sample mass to reach a stable state before the next temperature change. In dynamic thermogravimetry, a continuous linear increase in temperature is used to heat the sample. 

Applications of TGA

TGA is an ideal tool for material characterization, including the identification of unknown samples, as it provides both qualitative and quantitative data, only requires a small sample size, and can be performed on liquids and solids with very little sample preparation. TGA devices usually have a maximum sample weight of 1 gram and a maximum temperature of around 1,100 °C. When evaluating materials that are used in low-pressure applications, TGA can be performed in vacuum conditions.

TGA can be combined with other analytical techniques for an extended selection of uses. For example, evolved gas analysis (EGA) is possible when coupling a thermogravimetric analyzer with an MS, GC-MS, or FTIR analyzer. Also, if information on the effects of humidity is needed, dynamic vapor sorption (DVS) can be used to complement the results of a TGA measurement.

Need TGA measurements?

Measurlabs offers a wide selection of thermal analyses with methods including TGA, TMA, DSC, and dilatometry. Whether it’s just a dozen of samples or a large series, we offer competitive pricing and deliver reliable results quickly. Our experts are always just a message away, ready to guide you from test selection to result interpretation with clarity and care. Contact us through the form below to get a quote and start the discussion.

Suitable sample matrices

  • Almost all kinds of liquids and solids with flammable and/or volatile properties
  • Thermoplastics
  • Thermosets
  • Elastomers
  • Composites
  • Plastic films
  • Fibers
  • Coatings
  • Paints
  • Fuels

Ideal uses of TGA analysis

  • Thermal stability
  • Degradation
  • Sublimation
  • Vaporization
  • Quantitation of volatile compounds and moisture
  • Additive screening
  • Evolved gas analysis (when coupled with i.e. MS or FTIR)
  • Weight loss on drying

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Frequently asked questions

What is TGA testing commonly used for?

Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is commonly used for material characterization and investigation of thermal properties. 

What are the limitations of TGA analysis?

TGA on its own is not the best method for a complete analysis of a sample, but when combined with methods like MS, GC-MS, FTIR, or EGA (evolved gas analysis), its possibilities expand a lot.

What kinds of samples can be analyzed with TGA?

Thermogravimetric analysis is suitable for liquid and solid samples with flammable and/or volatile properties. 

What is Measurlabs?

Measurlabs offers a variety of laboratory analyses for product developers and quality managers. We perform some of the analyses in our own lab, but mostly we outsource them to carefully selected partner laboratories. This way we can send each sample to the lab that is best suited for the purpose, and offer high-quality analyses with more than a thousand different methods to our clients.

How does the service work?

When you contact us through our contact form or by email, one of our specialists will take ownership of your case and answer your query. You get an offer with all the necessary details about the analysis, and can send your samples to the indicated address. We will then take care of sending your samples to the correct laboratories and write a clear report on the results for you.

How do I send my samples?

Samples are usually delivered to our laboratory via courier. Contact us for further details before sending samples.