TGA Analysis: Thermal Gravimetric Lab Services
Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA)
Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA) is a thermal analysis procedure that measures weight loss as a function of temperature in a controlled environment. The temperature points at which components volatilize are plotted, creating a graph that quantifies the sample’s weight loss.
This type of analysis can be useful in determining differences in polymers, especially in the amounts of inorganic filler used within the polymer.
Since every project is unique, we invite you to contact one of our highly skilled analysts to discuss your specific needs.
The Basics
Our Thermal Gravimetric Analysis Experience
You can depend on our skilled analysts for reliable and cost-effective TGA analysis. Since 1990, leaders in the medical device, electronic, and general manufacturing industries have depended on Innovatech Labs for accurate and timely material analysis.
What Is TGA Thermal Gravimetric Testing?
TGA analysis is a technique that measures changes in a sample’s weight as a function of temperature or time in a controlled environment. During TGA, the sample is enclosed in an oven. The sample is weighed at room temperature, and then the sample’s mass is continuously monitored for changes as heat is applied to the sample.
TGA is a common technique for identifying mass loss or gain due to decomposition, oxidation, and combustion. TGA analysis can also be useful to test lubricants for weight loss characteristics resulting from evaporation, oxidation, or thermal cracking of base fluids or formulations.
Types of Thermal Gravimetric Analysis
The three types of thermographic analysis represent different ways to apply heat to the sample, as weight change is measured over time. They are:
• Isothermal or static thermogravimetry: Temperature is constant
• Dynamic thermogravimetry: Temperature is changed in a linear manner
• Quasistatic thermogravimetry: A series of increasing temperatures
Why You May Need Thermal Gravimetric Analysis
Thermal gravimetric analysis is often used to ascertain the differences in polymers and to determine the amount of organic and inorganic filler used in polymers. Specific use cases include:
• Determine the temperatures for onset and maximum rate of weight loss in polymers.
• Analyze the glass fiber content of composite samples that remains after the polymer resin degrades and burns off.
• Assess expansion, shrinkage or melting behavior of materials subjected to thermal temperatures.
How We Deliver Results with TGA Analysis
Our skilled analysts use TGA to determine qualitative and quantitative differences in materials, such as polymers, by heating them in a controlled environment and plotting the volatilization temperatures of the sample’s components. If an inorganic filler is used in a polymer, we can use TGA to quantify the amount of filler present.
Thermal Gravimetric Analysis Applications and Industries
Typical applications include determining polymer degradation temperatures, residual solvent levels, absorbed moisture as well as quantifying the amount of inorganic filler in polymer or composite materials.
Industries
• Polymers Manufacturing
• Plastics Manufacturing
• Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
• General Manufacturing
Is TGA Analysis a good fit for your needs? Contact Innovatech Labs today.
Applications
Quality Control
Product stability in extreme temperatures can depend on the right mix of materials. Because of its ability to detect very low levels of material, even in complex mixtures, TGA is a useful technique for quality control.
Thermal Stability of Polymers
By using TGA to determine thermal stability, manufacturers can gauge product performance within a specified temperature range. This information is helpful to determine if the polymer composition is ideal for the product’s intended use.
Oxidation and Combustion
Mass losses due to combustion or evaporation of solvents or water are the most common observable losses in TGA. Oxidation (if the sample is heated in air) can lead to mass gains for metallic samples.
TGA analysis is helpful in both fundamental and practical combustion research. When a sample is heated with TGA, it loses mass. TGA can help manufacturers understand the reason — usually the release of volatile materials.
Example of TGA and DSC Analysis
TGA is a chemical analysis method that defines the thermal limits of products — or how products will react to extreme temperature conditions. Pharmacologic products are an excellent use case for thermal testing such as TGA and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC).
Pharmacologic manufacturers use TGA and DSC Analysis to determine how temperature affects product safety. The resulting data is used to develop processes to ensure product stability from production to patient use.
Review all our analytical testing case studies to learn more about our capabilities.
TGA Analysis Service Details
• Sample size: The sample should weigh about 50 milligrams.
• Sample type and compatibility: TGA is typically used for polymers and liquids.
• Quantification and qualification: This technique identifies the percent of filler in a polymer and its thermal stability.
• Unique capabilities: TGA records weight loss as a function of temperature.
• Timing: Typical analysis time is about 1 hour
Contact Innovatech Labs for More Information on TGA Thermal Gravimetric Analysis
Determining the right materials testing for your project can be a challenge. We can help! Our skilled team of analysts has decades of experience and can help ensure that you have the right testing for every project. To learn more, contact us by email or phone 888-740-5227.