Differential Scanning Calorimetry is a thermal analysis technique suitable for many materials such as

• polymers (thermoplastics and thermosets)
• pharmaceuticals
• pigments
• nano-materials
• food products
• organics

It can be used to characterise and compare materials, identify and confirm purity, assess thermal stability and evaluate product-application conditions.

The Science

Differential Scanning Calorimetry is a technique in which the heat adsorbed or released from a sample, with known mass, is measured whilst undergoing a controlled heating and/or cooling program.

Generally, it is used to determine the crystalline and amorphous properties of materials. The following thermal transformations can be monitored.

• melting
• glass transitions
• phase changes
• curing reactions (and extent of cure)
• stability
• chemical reactions
• solvent loss
• polymorphism

More importantly, these properties can be directly related to the performance and properties of the material under investigation.

The instrumentation

Our Perkin Elmer DSC8000 features double-furnace technology and allows very accurate heat-flow measurements. Fast heating (0.01 to 300 °C/min) and cooling (0.01 to 150 °C) rates encompassing a wide temperature range from -170 to 750 °C which enables versatility in experimental design.

Consultancy

This instrumentation represents an important asset in many of our research and consultancy activities. The data collected compliments that obtained from our other thermal analysis techniques leading to greater understanding of material properties.

To find out more services we can provide please submit your enquiry or contact us on 0114 225 3500

Who to contact

For more information about differential scanning calorimetry please contact Dr Francis Clegg