Differential Scanning Calorimetry
Differential Scanning Calorimetry by NETZSCH
Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) investigates how the heat uptake or release of a sample material changes in comparison to a reference material when both are subjected to a controlled temperature change. This technique is very useful for determining Phase TransitionsThe term phase transition (or phase change) is most commonly used to describe transitions between the solid, liquid and gaseous states.phase transitions such as melting, CrystallizationCrystallization is the physical process of hardening during the formation and growth of crystals. During this process, heat of crystallization is released.crystallization, or chemical reactions.
Our Differential Scanning Calorimeters
Explore the range of NETZSCH DSC instruments
Accessories for DSC/DTA
Get an overview of all crucibles and sensors for DTA, DSC, TGA and STA measurements.
You will find many different crucible materials listed, and a variety of types and special shapes. From among these options, we can assist you in selecting the appropriate crucible size and material for your specific application, whether standard or special. In addition to standard aluminum crucibles, our portfolio includes autoclaves with low- to medium- or high-pressure tightness, as well as ones for determining the Oxidative-Induction Time (OIT) and Oxidative-Onset Temperature (OOT)Oxidative Induction Time (isothermal OIT) is a relative measure of the resistance of a (stabilized) material to oxidative decomposition. Oxidative-Induction Temperature (dynamic OIT) or Oxidative-Onset Temperature (OOT) is a relative measure of the resistance of a (stabilized) material to oxidative decomposition.oxidative-induction time (Oxidative-Induction Time (OIT) and Oxidative-Onset Temperature (OOT)Oxidative Induction Time (isothermal OIT) is a relative measure of the resistance of a (stabilized) material to oxidative decomposition. Oxidative-Induction Temperature (dynamic OIT) or Oxidative-Onset Temperature (OOT) is a relative measure of the resistance of a (stabilized) material to oxidative decomposition.OIT) and solid fat index (SFI). We offer crucibles made of ceramics or metals covering a wide temperature range.
About the DSC Method
Different Measuring Types of DSC Analysis Instruments
There are different types of DSC instruments, for example:
- Heat-Flux DSC: This type of DSC measures the heat flow between a sample and a reference which are being subjected to a controlled temperature program (heating, cooling or IsothermalTests at controlled and constant temperature are called isothermal.isothermal) under identical conditions in the same furnace. Any temperature difference between the sample and the reference leads to a heat flow that is proportional to the difference in their heat capacities. In this method, the temperature is measured directly at the sample holders.
- Power-Compensated DSC: In this technique, the sample and reference are placed in separate heating units. Each heating unit is independently controlled to maintain the same temperature for both the sample and the reference.
Why does NETZSCH use Heat-Flux DSC instruments? Here are the benefits to you:
- Simple design:
Heat-Flux DSC has a simpler design than power-compensated DSC because both the sample and reference are housed in a single furnace. This results in lower manufacturing costs and often easier maintenance. - Good baseline stability:
Due to its design and operating mode, the Heat-Flux DSC generally has a very stable baseline. This is particularly advantageous for long-term experiments or those requiring accurate baseline interpretation for data analysis. - Sample holder flexibility:
Various types of sample holders and pans allow for the analysis of a wide range of sample types and sizes. This is particularly useful in areas where different sample formats are required. - Robustness in different atmospheres:
The design of Heat-Flux DSC instruments often allows for easy switching between different atmospheric conditions (such as inert gas, air, or vacuum), which is essential when studying OxidationOxidation can describe different processes in the context of thermal analysis.oxidation or reduction processes. - Good comparability:
Because Heat-Flux DSC instruments are widely used and established, there is a great deal of comparative data available, which facilitates verification and validation of results. This is especially important in regulated industries such as pharmaceuticals and food. - Reduced sensitivity to external interference:
By using a common furnace for both sample and reference, measurements are less susceptible to external disturbances such as laboratory temperature variations, resulting in more accurate results.
Of course, our Differential Scanning Calorimeters (DSC instruments) meet the respective instrument and application standards, including: ISO 11357, ASTM E967, ASTM E968, ASTM E793, ASTM D3895, ASTM D3417, ASTM D3418, DIN 51004, DIN 51007, and DIN 53765.
Frequently Asked Questions
Different Types of NETZSCH Differential Scanning Calorimeters (DSC)
Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) is a versatile analytical technique used to measure the thermal properties of materials, including melting points, Phase TransitionsThe term phase transition (or phase change) is most commonly used to describe transitions between the solid, liquid and gaseous states.phase transitions, heat capacities, and 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 transitions. NETZSCH offers a range of DSC instruments for different temperature ranges and pressure conditions, each optimized for specific applications.
Low-Temperature DSC Instruments
Low-temperature DSC instruments are specifically designed to measure thermal transitions over a wide temperature range, including those well below ambient. These devices are ideal for analyzing phase changes, CrystallizationCrystallization is the physical process of hardening during the formation and growth of crystals. During this process, heat of crystallization is released.crystallization, or other thermal events at low temperatures.
Applications:
- Polymers: Determining the 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 (Tg) of polymers, which is critical for understanding their performance in cold environments.
- Pharmaceuticals: Investigating the CrystallizationCrystallization is the physical process of hardening during the formation and growth of crystals. During this process, heat of crystallization is released. crystallization behavior of drugs and excipients to ensure stability during storage and use.
- Cryogenics: Analyzing the behavior of materials intended for use in extremely cold environments, such as in space applications or cryopreservation.
Typical Temperature Range: Down to -180°C, depending on the specific model and cooling system used.
High-Temperature DSC Instruments
High-temperature DSC instruments are engineered to measure thermal transitions at elevated temperatures. These systems are crucial for studying materials that undergo significant changes, such as melting, Decomposition reactionA decomposition reaction is a thermally induced reaction of a chemical compound forming solid and/or gaseous products. decomposition, or Phase TransitionsThe term phase transition (or phase change) is most commonly used to describe transitions between the solid, liquid and gaseous states.phase transitions, at high temperatures.
Applications:
- Metals and Alloys: Analyzing melting points, solidification processes, and phase transitions in metals and alloys, which is essential for materials science and metallurgy.
- Ceramics: Investigating the SinteringSintering is a production process for forming a mechanically strong body out of a ceramic or metallic powder. sintering and CrystallizationCrystallization is the physical process of hardening during the formation and growth of crystals. During this process, heat of crystallization is released. crystallization behavior of ceramic materials, vital for optimizing manufacturing processes.
- Inorganic Compounds: Studying the Thermal StabilityA material is thermally stable if it does not decompose under the influence of temperature. One way to determine the thermal stability of a substance is to use a TGA (thermogravimetric analyzer). thermal stability and Decomposition reactionA decomposition reaction is a thermally induced reaction of a chemical compound forming solid and/or gaseous products. decomposition of inorganic compounds at high temperatures.
Typical Temperature Range: Up to 2000°C, depending on the model and furnace type.
High-Pressure DSC Instruments
High-pressure DSC instruments are designed to perform calorimetric measurements under elevated pressures. These instruments are particularly useful for studying the effects of pressure on thermal transitions, which can significantly alter a material’s behavior.
Applications:
- Polymers and Elastomers: Investigating the influence of pressure on the CrystallizationCrystallization is the physical process of hardening during the formation and growth of crystals. During this process, heat of crystallization is released. crystallization and melting behavior of polymers to understand their processing.
- Petrochemicals: Studying the thermal behavior of fuels and lubricants under pressure, providing insights into their performance in high-pressure environments.
- Food Science: Exploring the stability and phase transitions of fats and oils under pressure, which can influence texture and shelf life.
Typical Pressure Range: Up to 150 bar, depending on the model.
Your Benefits
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Why Should You Choose a NETZSCH DSC Instrument for Your Thermal Analysis Needs?
We deliver tailored solutions going beyond measurement data and provide insight with smart approaches.
When it comes to Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), NETZSCH Analyzing & Testing is your perfect match, offering unrivaled precision, reliability and innovation. Here’s why you should consider investing in a NETZSCH DSC instrument for your laboratory or research facility:
- Always One Step Ahead with the Proteus® Measurement and Evaluation Software
Experience unparalleled efficiency and accuracy with our user-friendly analysis software Proteus®. Features like AutoEvaluation for automatic evaluation of DSC curves, Identify for material identification and comparison via a database, SmartMode for a fast measurement setup and other advanced tools make your analysis seamless and insightful. - Expert Support and Training
Benefit from the expertise of our dedicated and continuously trained professionals across service, laboratory, training, and sales departments. Our team with decades-long experience is committed to providing exceptional support and comprehensive training to ensure you get the most out of your DSC instrument – 24 hours per day! - Proven Excellence in German Engineering
NETZSCH DSC instruments are synonymous with German engineering excellence, offering top-tier quality and exceptional durability. With a minimum of 10 years of spare parts availability, our instruments promise longevity and reliable performance for years to come. - DSC 300 Caliris®: Modular Flexibility with AutoSampler
The DSC 300 Caliris® stands out for its modular design, offering you the flexibility to adapt the system to your specific needs. With the added convenience of an AutoSampler, you can automate your sample testing, increasing productivity and efficiency in your lab. - Dual Cooling Systems for Versatility
NETZSCH DSC instruments can be equipped with two different cooling systems (IC andLN2) simultaneously. This feature allows for a broader range of applications and more precise results without the customer having to carry out any reconstructions.
Long Instrument Life
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Unlimited Warranty
Our Quality Promise:
NETZSCH's Unlimited Warranty
At NETZSCH, our commitment to quality goes beyond the instruments themselves. We understand that your investment in advanced technology is a long-term one, and that's why we offer something truly unique – our Unlimited Warranty.
Applications for Differential Scanning Calorimetry
Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) is a vital technique across various industries, offering critical insights into the thermal properties of materials. At NETZSCH Analyzing and Testing, our advanced DSC solutions ensure precision and reliability for diverse applications:
Polymers and Plastics:
- Applications: Determining 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, Melting Temperatures and EnthalpiesThe enthalpy of fusion of a substance, also known as latent heat, is a measure of the energy input, typically heat, which is necessary to convert a substance from solid to liquid state. The melting point of a substance is the temperature at which it changes state from solid (crystalline) to liquid (isotropic melt).melting point, and CrystallizationCrystallization is the physical process of hardening during the formation and growth of crystals. During this process, heat of crystallization is released. crystallization behavior.
- Benefits: Ensures product consistency, optimizes processing, and aids new material development.
Composites and Advanced Materials:
- Applications: Assessing thermal behavior of composites and ceramics.
- Benefits: Ensures reliability under various conditions, aiding in high-performance material development.
Pharmaceuticals:
- Applications: Characterizing Thermal StabilityA material is thermally stable if it does not decompose under the influence of temperature. One way to determine the thermal stability of a substance is to use a TGA (thermogravimetric analyzer). thermal stability, purity, and polymorphic forms.
- Benefits: Enhances drug formulation stability, compliance, and effective drug delivery.
Food and Beverages:
- Applications: Analyzing melting behavior of fats and oils.
- Benefits: Improves texture, stability, and shelf life.
Chemicals:
- Applications: Studying reaction kinetics, 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 processes, and Thermal StabilityA material is thermally stable if it does not decompose under the influence of temperature. One way to determine the thermal stability of a substance is to use a TGA (thermogravimetric analyzer). thermal stability.
- Benefits: Optimizes manufacturing, improves safety, and enhances performance.
Electronics:
- Applications: Evaluating thermal properties of electronic materials, like batteries.
- Benefits: Enhances thermal management, ensuring device longevity and reliability.
“We rely on NETZSCH DSC instruments since 25 years to support synthesis and crystal growing.”
“We use the high-pressure DSC 204 HP Phoenix® to study synthetic chemistry and nanotechnology.”
“NETZSCH DSC helps optimizing extrusion, injection molding & 3D printing processes.”
DSC Case Studies
Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) is the most-employed Thermal Analysis method. NETZSCH offers a variety of DSC instruments, accessories and services designed to meet your analytical needs across various industries. Each model is tailored to specific applications, temperature ranges, and levels of sensitivity.
Media and Training
Become an Expert in Differential Scanning Calorimetry - with NOA!
Our e-learning platform, NETZSCH Online Academy (NOA), offers you the ability to expand your knowledge in thermal analysis topics without even having to leave your desk.
Have a look at our brand-new DSC courses! Choose between BASIC, PLUS or PREMIUM and take advantage of flexible online learning, fully adapted to your training needs!
Application Literature about Differential Scanning Calorimetry
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