{"id":1515,"date":"2018-10-08T03:26:00","date_gmt":"2018-10-08T08:26:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rqmplus.com\/?p=1515"},"modified":"2025-09-03T09:20:11","modified_gmt":"2025-09-03T14:20:11","slug":"what-is-thermal-gravimetric-analysis","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rqmplus.com\/blog\/what-is-thermal-gravimetric-analysis\/","title":{"rendered":"What is Thermal Gravimetric Analysis?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Thermogravimetric analysis, or thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), is a method of determining the overall mass of a sample as a temperature-dependent property. Mass change as a function of temperature is a fundamental property of many materials as they degrade and lose volatile components. This phenomenon can provide rich detail about materials under test.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

By strategically subjecting a sample to a precise temperature program under strict atmospheric controls and simultaneously measuring changes in weight, thermal gravimetric analysis can provide vital data for a wide range of materials characterization objectives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step-by-Step Principles and Procedure<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In simple terms, thermal gravimetric analysis provides a statistical readout of material mass as a function of temperature and time. This is carried out by heating samples in a chosen atmosphere on a highly accurate balance. Various temperature profiles can be programmed to suit different experiments, including parameters such as peak temperature, ramp rate and dwell times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Measuring the sample\u2019s mass at regular intervals throughout this temperature profile yields a thermogravimetric curve where mass is plotted as a function of temperature or time. This characteristic curve is usually indicative of thermal decomposition; where elevated temperatures begin to break the sample down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Data Collection Through Thermal Gravimetric Analysis<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Determination of Content<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Thermal gravimetric analysis is routinely employed for content determination, providing accurate and actionable insights into sample composition. It is regularly employed to determine carbon and inorganic content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Properties of Reactivity & Corrosiveness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Using thermal gravimetric analysis, researchers can prove the reactivity or corrosivity of sample materials when exposed to specific environments. This is particularly useful for metal alloys and catalysts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Changes in Size, Shape & Overall Mass<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Exposure to varying, pre-disposed temperatures and alternating thermal conditions can tell us if a composite might tend to shrink or expand, changing its size or shape, as well as, why this might occur. If, as researchers, we have a specific, targeted objective or use for a substance, the extent to which it is prone to possible changes in size, shape or scale may affect how the material is applied.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Applications of Thermal Gravimetric Analysis<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The ability to accurately predict the durability, stability, and strength of a material carries wide-reaching connotations for cutting-edge technology, industry, and construction. Our chemists can understand the properties of a material which are significant to the goal of the specific application. If you would like more information about running thermogravimetric analysis with RQM+ Lab Services simply contact a member of the team today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Related Techniques<\/h3>\n\n\n\n