Thermal Technique
The weight of a sample must be monitored continuously while it is subjected to a controlled temperature program in a specified atmosphere. This thermogravimetric analysis provides quantitative data on thermal decomposition or vaporization under different temperature profiles. It is used to evaluate the thermal stability of polymers or ceramic materials.
Instrument Design
The analytical instrument consists of a high-precision microbalance housed within a furnace that can reach elevated temperatures. During a thermogravimetric analysis, a purge gas controls the sample atmosphere, which can be inert, reducing or oxidizing depending on the test requirements. The balance output is recorded as a function of temperature to generate a thermogravimetric curve.
This curve acts as a fingerprint for the material’s thermal properties under the chosen environmental conditions.
Material Characterization
Determining the decomposition temperature of a polymer helps in selecting the correct materials for electronic encapsulation. By performing thermogravimetric analysis on a packaging sample, engineers identify the thermal limits where weight loss begins. This prevents the use of materials that would outgas or degrade during high-temperature reflow or operation.
Calibration Protocol
The accuracy of the balance and temperature readings is verified using certified reference materials with known transition points. Periodic calibration ensures that the thermogravimetric analysis yields reproducible results across different instruments and test environments. This standardization is critical for material qualification in high-reliability applications.
