Dielectric Analysis
For investigation of the Curing (Crosslinking Reactions)Literally translated, the term “crosslinking“ means “cross networking”. In the chemical context, it is used for reactions in which molecules are linked together by introducing covalent bonds and forming three-dimensional networks.curing behavior of thermosetting resin systems, composite materials, adhesives and paints, Dielectric Analysis (DEA) / Dielectric Thermal Analysis (DETA) in accordance with ASTM E2038 or E2039 has stood the test of time.
Dielectric Analysis (DEA), also known as Dielectric Thermal Analysis (DETA), is a technique for monitoring changes in viscosity and the cure state of thermosetting resins, adhesives, paints, composites and other kinds of polymers or organic substances by measuring variations in their dielectric properties.
NETZSCH offers single- and multiple-channel DEA systems for measuring ion conductivity, which is calculated from the dielectric loss factor or its reciprocal, the Ion ViscosityIon viscosity is the reciprocal value of the ion conductivity, which is calculated from the dielectric loss factor.ion viscosity. These systems operate in various measurement and frequency ranges with different types of sensors, depending on the application.
Our Dielectric Analyzer
Explore the NETZSCH DEA analysis instrument
Product Versions: Ionic & Rack
The DEA 288 Ionic is available in two versions to meet different application needs:
- Ionic Version (Portable)
With up to 7 channels in the standard configuration, the portable Ionic version offers maximum flexibility for laboratory use.
With the Ionic Extension, the system can be expanded to up to 14 channels, enabling parallel measurements and efficient material screening. - Rack Version (Industrial Integration)
The Rack version is designed for control-cabinet installation and optimized for industrial process environments.
It supports 8 channels, expandable to up to 16 channels using additional rack modules. This makes it ideal for automated production lines and in-line process control.
About the Method
Dielectric Analysis is based on impedance measurement. A sample is placed between two electrodes (the dielectric sensor) and subjected to an alternating sinusoidal voltage. The applied electric field forces ions and dipoles within the material to move, creating a current with a measurable phase shift.
As Curing (Crosslinking Reactions)Literally translated, the term “crosslinking“ means “cross networking”. In the chemical context, it is used for reactions in which molecules are linked together by introducing covalent bonds and forming three-dimensional networks.curing progresses, viscosity increases and ion mobility decreases, leading to characteristic changes in the dielectric response. These signals provide information on:
- Flow behavior and reactivity
- Viscosity and gel point
- Degree of CureThe degree of curing describes the conversion achieved during crosslinking reactions (curing). Degree of cure and cure kinetics
- Glass transition and vitrification
- Diffusion and Decomposition reactionA decomposition reaction is a thermally induced reaction of a chemical compound forming solid and/or gaseous products. decomposition effects
This makes DEA an ideal method for monitoring both fast and slow Curing (Crosslinking Reactions)Literally translated, the term “crosslinking“ means “cross networking”. In the chemical context, it is used for reactions in which molecules are linked together by introducing covalent bonds and forming three-dimensional networks.curing systems, including thermal, UV, and dual-cure processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
DEA is the most powerful measurement technique for the critical, invisible in-mold Curing (Crosslinking Reactions)Literally translated, the term “crosslinking“ means “cross networking”. In the chemical context, it is used for reactions in which molecules are linked together by introducing covalent bonds and forming three-dimensional networks.curing that dictates the quality of a component.
You can measure the following:
- Degree of CureThe degree of curing describes the conversion achieved during crosslinking reactions (curing). Degree of Cure
- Gel-Point
- Flow Behavior
- Reactivity
- Cure Monitoring
- Diffusion Properties
- Glass Transition TemperatureThe glass transition is one of the most important properties of amorphous and semi-crystalline materials, e.g., inorganic glasses, amorphous metals, polymers, pharmaceuticals and food ingredients, etc., and describes the temperature region where the mechanical properties of the materials change from hard and brittle to more soft, deformable or rubbery.Glass Transition Temperature
- Process Monitoring and Optimization
- Aging
- Decomposition reactionA decomposition reaction is a thermally induced reaction of a chemical compound forming solid and/or gaseous products. Decomposition Effects
To recreate real-world processing conditions, NETZSCH offers a wide variety of accessories and add-ons for the DEA 288 Ionic.
- A laboratory furnace with heating, cooling, and IsothermalTests at controlled and constant temperature are called isothermal.isothermal operation (-140 °C to +400 °C) that can be combined with a UV light source.
- A humidity/atmosphere chamber is available for testing materials under defined environmental conditions.
- A UV option (OmniCure® S2000) is available for the software-controlled Curing (Crosslinking Reactions)Literally translated, the term “crosslinking“ means “cross networking”. In the chemical context, it is used for reactions in which molecules are linked together by introducing covalent bonds and forming three-dimensional networks.curing of light-reactive systems, such as coatings, adhesives, and resins.
- A laboratory press (up to 350°C, 10kN) is available for testing composite or molding materials under simultaneous heat and pressure.
All accessories are fully integrated into the Proteus® software, allowing for intuitive control and synchronized data acquisition, which bridges the gap between laboratory research and industrial production.
Dielectric Analysis (DEA), also known as Dielectric Thermal Analysis (DETA), is the most powerful method for investigating the invisible curing processes of thermosetting polymers.
By measuring changes in dielectric properties during a reaction, DEA delivers direct, real-time insights into curing under true processing conditions and tracks ion mobility, viscosity, gel point and Degree of CureThe degree of curing describes the conversion achieved during crosslinking reactions (curing). degree of cure.
Unlike DMA, DEA can follow curing processes much longer — even after the sample is rigid — making it especially powerful for highly crosslinked systems.
Benefit from:
- Direct, in-situ measurements without complex sample preparation
- Real-time monitoring during processing (including in-mold)
- Applicable to thermal, UV, and dual-cure systems
- Wide frequency range for both fast and slow curing reactions
- Portable and industrial versions available for lab and production use
DEA can be applied to a wide range of materials, including:
- Epoxy, polyester, and polyurethane resins
- Sheet and bulk molding compounds (SMC/BMC)
- Prepregs and composites
- Adhesives, paints, varnishes, inks
- UV-curing systems
NETZSCH offers a wide range of disposable, reusable, and in-mold sensors tailored to different applications — from coatings and adhesives to thick composites and high-pressure molding processes.
Yes. NETZSCH offers both a portable lab version and a rack version for integration into industrial processes. In-mold sensors allow for direct monitoring of the curing behavior during manufacturing.
The cost of a NETZSCH dielectric analyzer can vary depending on the model, features, and any additional accessories or software options you may require.
To get an accurate and up-to-date price for your individual NETZSCH DEA Instrument, please contact your local NETZSCH representative or one of our authorized distributors. We will provide a quote tailored to your specific requirements, including any necessary training, installation, or additional features.
Our current delivery time is approximately 6 weeks, depending on the specific configuration of the DEA and the current demand. For more complex customizations or during periods of high demand, the delivery time may extend beyond this range.
For the most up-to-date information, we encourage you to contact us directly with a specific request. This will ensure that we can provide you with an accurate timeline tailored to your specific needs.
Your Benefits
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up to16
over50
What Makes NETZSCH DEA Instruments Unique?
- Versatile instrumentation: Portable lab version or industrial rack version, supporting up to 16 channels.
- Fast data acquisition: <5 ms minimum acquisition time for real-time monitoring of even rapid UV curing systems.
- Wide frequency range: 1 mHz to 1 MHz, covering all relevant processes.
- Smart sensors: Disposable, reusable, and in-mold sensors tailored for coatings, adhesives, prepregs, composites, or bulk materials.
- Process transferability: Parameters developed in the lab can easily be applied to production monitoring.
- No special sample preparation: Sensors can be easily integrated into real applications — from coatings to in-mold cure monitoring.
- Software integration: The NETZSCH Proteus® software allows for intuitive setup, advanced evaluation, and seamless accessory control (UV lamp, furnace, press).
- Coupling options: Simultaneous DEA-DMA or DEA-Rheology measurements expand analytical insight into flow, gelation, and vitrification.
NETZSCH DEA Application Fields
DEA is applied across industries wherever thermosets and curing reactions define performance:
- Resins, adhesives & coatings: Monitoring viscosity, gelation, and curing behavior in epoxies, polyesters, polyurethanes, paints, and varnishes.
- Composites: Cure monitoring in Sheet Molding Compounds (SMC), Bulk Molding Compounds (BMC), prepregs, and Resin Transfer Molding (RTM).
- UV curing systems: Real-time evaluation of light-induced curing of inks, adhesives, and protective coatings.
- Process optimization: Direct in-mold measurements for automotive, aerospace, wind energy, shipbuilding, and electronics manufacturing.
- Quality assurance: Ensuring consistent production and reliable component performance.
- Research & development: Development of optimized formulations, investigation of additives, fillers, and curing agents.
DEA bridges laboratory analysis and industrial process control, making it indispensable for modern polymer and composite processing.
Real-Time Insights into Curing Processes
Dielectric Analysis is the key method for monitoring the curing of thermosets and composites.
It provides direct measurement of viscosity, gel point, and cure kinetics, allowing researchers and engineers to optimize materials and transfer parameters from lab to production with confidence.
Media and Training
Application Literature about DEA
Blog articles about NETZSCH Dielectric Analyzers
- 18.03.2025
UV-Curing in Polymers: Insights by Means of Thermal Analysis and Rheology with NETZSCH Instruments
- 02.03.2022
Material Science in Additive Manufacturing: Study UV cure using DEA
- 26.01.2021
Monitoring Mechanical Properties of Elastomeric Materials During Application
- 29.10.2020
Material Behavior on a Nanoscale with the DMA GABO DiPLEXOR®
Videos that may be of interest to you
FAQs about NETZSCH Service
Our NETZSCH applications laboratory provides contract testing services for a wide range of industries and research centers. It is equipped with state-of-the-art testing instruments allowing for a variety of measurements to be carried out.
Consult with the NETZSCH experts in our applications labs to choose the best-suited measuring method for your specific needs. You will be working with our experienced scientists (physicists, chemists, materials scientists), possessing consolidated knowledge of the most varied methods and materials spectra.
We offer:
- Installation and Commissioning
- Relocation of your instrument
- Maintenance and inspection
- Calibration
- Repair
- Comprehensive training from basic to advanced use of the instrument – on-site and online.
Please note that our service may vary from region to region.
Our Remote Service is available worldwide.
Yes, we offer maintenance contracts for your instruments according to the different regional and individual customer requirements. Please feel free to contact our Service Department or take a closer look at our website section Service-Level Agreement - NETZSCH Analyzing & Testing.
Benefit from our free e-learning basic courses:
Our basic e-learning courses are available free of charge on our website, designed to support you exactly where learning really happens: in everyday lab work. Whether you’re new to thermal analysis, rheology, or fire testing or simply want to refresh your knowledge: Our expert-led video courses help you:
✔ start measurements with confidence
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All courses are created by NETZSCH experts with decades of hands-on experience, sharing real knowledge you can directly apply in the lab.
👉 Start learning for free: netzs.ch/e-learning
Moreover, we offer
- online training via our NETZSCH Online Academy NOA,
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- on-site training at your location or our training centers.
Simply contact your sales representative or go to Know-How - NETZSCH Analyzing & Testing
