Differential Scanning Calorimetry, commonly known as DSC, is a thermo-analytical technique for polymeric and non-metallic materials. Most commonly used for detecting glass transition temperature and other thermal properties, differential scanning calorimetry is one of the most efficient and cost-effective polymer test methods available.
Differential scanning calorimetry testing
DSC testing has been used for decades as a way to predict the behaviors of polymeric materials under different thermal conditions. Like all calorimeters, this technique tracks the amount of energy required to increase the temperature of a material by a certain amount. By making accurate measurements of heat capacity and temperature, differential scanning calorimetry can detect changes in material properties at exact temperatures, revealing important transition ranges and deterioration points.
How is DSC testing performed?
To perform DSC testing, a small amount of material is heated at a predetermined rate. The energy required to heat the sample is compared to an inert reference material at the same temperature. If the sample under test requires more energy compared to the reference, it is indicated as an endotherm. The peak of an endotherm indicated melting temperature. When less energy is required to heat the sample as compared to the inert reference, an exothermic peak is observed. This may indicate a chemical reaction such as curing is taking place.
Hassle-free testing to a range of standards
American Society of Testing & Materials
ASTM D3417, ASTM D3418, ASTM D3895, ASTM D4591, ASTM D7426, ASTM E1131, ASTM E1269, ASTM E1356, ASTM E1858, ASTM E2160, ASTM E2602, ASTM E793, ASTM E794, ASTM E831, ASTM F1514, ASTM F262
Deutsches Institut für Normung
DIN 51007, DIN 75201
Institute for Interconnecting and Packaging Electronic Circuits
IPC-TM-650
International Standards Organization
ISO 11357, ISO 11358, ISO 11359
Various Customer Specifications
SRM 25R-94, PA-06, PA-14, GM 9094P, MAP N215
Why choose ºÃÉ«TV?
ºÃÉ«TV performs DSC testing in laboratories across the US and Europe. Our polymer testing experts have years of experience across a variety of industries, and can help you overcome the unique challenges inherent with non-metallic materials. Contact an expert today to let us know how we can make your next project a success.
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Considerations for Glass Transition Temperature
ºÃÉ«TV offers a variety of methods for determining glass transition temperature and other important polymeric characteristics
Thermal Analysis (DSC, TMA, DMA, TGA)
Thermal analysis methods measure mechanical changes under differing temperatures and loads, and can pinpoint when and at what temperature significant thermal events occur.
Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA)
TMA provides data on thermal properties by contacting the specimen with a quartz probe to measure CTE and Tg.
Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA)
DMA determines thermal-mechanical properties, such as glass transitions (Tg), by measuring the complex moduli and viscoelastic behavior of materials as a function of cyclic load and temperature.