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METHODS

Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC)

In calorimetric analysis using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), enthalpy changes in a sample are measured during heating or cooling or at a constant temperature.

The method enables both the determination of the temperatures at which enthalpy changes occur (e.g. the glass transition, crystallization and melting temperature of polymers) and the quantitative measurement of the associated reaction energy. Investigations can be carried out under different gas atmospheres and heating or cooling rates.

According to which standards do we test?

Whenever possible, we carry out our testing services in accordance with or based on these international standards:
  • ISO 11357-1
  • ISO 11357-2
  • ISO 11357-3

Which devices do we use?

  • Mettler STAR System DSC1 (temperature range: ‑170 to 750 °C)

For which material tests do we use this method?

We use Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) for the following material tests, among others:
  • Measurable effects in reactions: Dehydrogenation, oxidation, reduction, solid-state reactions, oxidation stability of polymers
  • Analysis of phase transformations: Glass transformation in semi-crystalline and amorphous polymers, melting, crystallization
  • Quantitative analyses: purity determination, determination of the crystallinity of polymers

What you should know about this method?

Which products can be tested at the RMS?
In principle, all materials, including metals, polymers, ceramics and chemical substances, can be tested using DSC. The samples can be in the form of solids, liquids or powders
What do I need to bear in mind with the samples?
  • Solids: Minimum quantity 0.1 g
  • Powder samples: Minimum quantity 0.1 g
  • Liquids: Minimum quantity 1 ml
Is the method accredited?

Yes, DSC measurements are validated and accredited according to ISO/IEC 17025.

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Who is your contact person?

Fabrizio Bigolin
Team Leader Analytics & Materials Testing
+41 32 644 2023
CONTACT NOW

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Our certifications

Since 1995, the services of our materials testing laboratory have been accredited according to ISO/IEC 17025. Our QM system is ISO 9001 certified.
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