24.08.2023 by Dr. Stefan Schmölzer
Visit and Test our Lab for Differential Scanning Calorimetry
In last weeks´ blog article, we introduced the NETZSCH Applications Laboratory and its comprehensive contract testing services. We took a closer look at our lab for Laser Flash Analysis and thermophysical properties. Let's take a deeper dive into our various laboratories at NETZSCH Analyzing & Testing, continuing with our lab for Differential Scanning Calorimetry instruments.
Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) is the most well known and most widely used method in Thermal Analysis. By means of DSC, one can investigate 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 temperatures and enthalpies of all kind of substances, but also the CrystallizationCrystallization is the physical process of hardening during the formation and growth of crystals. During this process, heat of crystallization is released.crystallization behaviour can be investigated. A very important characteristic for many materials (not only polymers) is 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) which can be also derived from DSC measurements. Generally spoken, by DSC one can investigate Phase TransitionsThe term phase transition (or phase change) is most commonly used to describe transitions between the solid, liquid and gaseous states.phase transitions of materials. Along with that, it is also possible to measure the oxidative stability and the Degree of CureThe degree of curing describes the conversion achieved during crosslinking reactions (curing). degree of cure.
One very important material characteristic is the Specific Heat Capacity (cp)Heat capacity is a material-specific physical quantity, determined by the amount of heat supplied to specimen, divided by the resulting temperature increase. The specific heat capacity is related to a unit mass of the specimen.specific heat capacity in dependency of temperature, which can be also derived from DSC measurements. The gathered information is not only relevant for research and development but also used for quality control and failure analysis.
Measurements by Means of Differential Scanning Calorimetry
In the NETZSCH Applications Laboratory we have the possibility to conduct DSC measurements in a broad temperature range starting at lowest temperature of -180 °C up to even 1750 °C. All accessories like special crucibles and instrument accessories such as photo-DSC equipment and high-pressure DSC are also available.
My name is Stefan Schmölzer and together with my colleague, Jörg Menzel, we conduct DSC measurements also on basis of contract test work, providing data sets and measurement curves. Our objective is to solve customers´ problems and needs by means of thermal analysis having all possible techniques of thermal analysis in mind.
Contact us today to tap the full potential of our method expertise. Learn how we can help you achieve your business goals with confidence.
Stay Tuned!
In the weeks to come, we will be regularly presenting selections from the wide variety of contract testing offerings by NETZSCH Analyzing & Testing. Join us on an exciting tour through our laboratories and follow our upcoming blog posts.