1. TGA/DTA Thermogravimetric analysis
The technique in which the mass change in a sample is measured as a function of temperature, while subjected to a controlled temperature program.
Sigmoidal curves
Temperature range
DTA

2. Thermal Methods Controlled temperature programs dT/dt  constant
Isothermal
Modulated
Complex step
Self regulating T t T t

3. TGA TGA instrumentation
Photodiodes
Infrared LED
Meter movement
Balance arm
Sample platform
Thermocouple
Sample pan
Furnace assembly
Purge gas outlet
Heater
Elevator base
Purge gas inlet
Sample pan holder
Tare pan

4. Crucible & Thermobalance
Pt sample pans
Ni, Al, Al2O3, SiO2, ceramic
Thermobalance
Vertical rotating pivot
Null deflection system

5. Furnace, Thermocouples & Atmosphere
Resistive alloy windings
Thermocouples (B,R,S)
Pt-Pt/Rh
Atmosphere
Inert
Removal of evolved gases
Vacuum

6. Compositional Analysis
Degradation Curves a b c
Compositional Analysis
Wt.% loss
Plateaus vs. shoulders
Wt.% gain
Principles of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry, P.J. Haines et al., Royal Society of Chemistry, 2002