Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA)
Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA)
A sample is gradually heated to a predetermined temperature until its properties change. In reaction to a change in temperature, the sample’s physical characteristics are measured. Force can also be applied while the material is being heated to ascertain how the material will respond to various modes.
Strengths of TMA
- TMA is quick and easy to carry out.
- It provides valuable information about the material’s behavior as a function of temperature change.
Limitations of TMA
- The test results are used to destroy the sample.
- It is difficult to get accurate results for irregularly shaped objects.
Uses of TMA
Across industries, thermochemical analysis is a vital process. It is extensively employed in material science to create novel materials, in product design and quality assurance, and to evaluate a material’s resistance to heat.
Schematic diagram of TMA apparatus
Figure 1: Schematic TMA instrument (UTP is the universal temperature programmer)
Figure 2: Thermocouple for measuring temperature in the system Applications of Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA)
A TMA graph for a combination of three different waxes melting at various temperatures is shown in Figure 3. The commencement of vertical displacement provides a straightforward and repeatable measurement of each test mixture component’s melting point.
Figure 3: Melting transitions of each wax component are defined by a sharp softening of the sample
Sample requirements
The sample should be solid and less than 26 mm long, 4.7 mm wide, and 1.0 mm high.
Video 01: Thermal Mechanical Analyser TMA
