1990 Volume 6 Issue 5 Pages 635-643
The use of thermal analysis as a method for material characterization is increasing, particularly in the development of new materials. This review describes three of the analytical techniques within thermal analysis: differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermomechanical analysis (TMA) and dynamic mechanical spectrometry (DMS). DSC and TMA are the traditional thermal analysis techniques, and have gained wide acceptance for material characterization. Specific heat capacity measurements using the DSC and thermal expansion coefficient measurements using the TMA are discussed. This review also includes a discussion of the DMS as a newly added technique in thermal analysis and its application to polymers.
