Thermogravimetric Analysis
Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is an analytical method with which the mass of a sample is measured as a function of time and/or temperature. Weight changes in the sample 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. TGA analysis is suitable for both heating and cooling the sample.
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The basics of TGA analysis
Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is used to measure weight changes in the sample. Weight changes are presented 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 atmosphere can be modified as well, with the most common options being inert or oxygen-rich.
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
TGA analysis is an ideal tool for material characterization, including the identification of unknown samples, as it is suitable for both qualitative and quantitative analysis, 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 1000 °C.
TGA testing can be combined with other analytical methods for an extended selection of uses. For example, evolved gas analysis (EGA) is possible when coupling TGA with MS or FTIR methods.
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
Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is commonly used for material characterization and investigation of thermal properties.
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.
Thermogravimetric analysis is suitable for liquid and solid samples with flammable and/or volatile properties.
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.
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.
Samples are usually delivered to our laboratory via courier. Contact us for further details before sending samples.