At its core, TGA measures the change in weight of a sample as it undergoes temperature variation. This reveals valuable information about processes such as decomposition, oxidation, and volatilization.
TGA instruments consist of a sample holder suspended in a controlled environment. As the temperature rises, the instrument records changes in the sample's weight, providing a dynamic view of thermal transitions.
TGA is extensively used to study the thermal degradation of materials. Whether analyzing polymers, minerals, or organic substances, TGA enables researchers to identify the temperature at which materials decompose.
Researchers leverage TGA to examine the oxidative and reduction behaviors of materials. This is crucial in understanding how substances react with atmospheric oxygen or other gases.
TGA is highly effective in determining moisture content in materials. By monitoring weight loss during temperature increase, it provides insights into the water content and the corresponding temperature at which dehydration occurs.
TGA plays a pivotal role in characterizing polymers and composite materials. It aids in understanding thermal stability, degradation points, and compositional changes.
The versatility of TGA lies in its ability to provide quantitative data on material composition changes, thermal stability, and reaction kinetics. Its application spans across industries, from chemistry and materials science to environmental analysis.