Mass Stability
Precision weighing tracks the change in the weight of a material as it is heated or cooled in a controlled atmosphere. This analytical tool is referred to as thermal gravimetric analysis and provides a detailed map of thermal stability. It is used to determine the exact amount of moisture, volatile organic compounds, synthetic binders and inorganic fillers in a sample.
The process reveals the temperature at which each component begins to break down.
Decomposition Profile
Testing involves placing a tiny amount of the material into a furnace on a highly sensitive balance. As the temperature rises, different substances evaporate or decompose and cause the total weight to drop. For a paper sample, the first loss represents the moisture content and the later drops show the breakdown of the cellulose and the coating binders.
The final weight left at the end of the test represents the mineral ash content. These weight changes are plotted against temperature to create a signature that is unique to that specific material formulation.
Component Quantification
Atmosphere inside the furnace can be adjusted to simulate different conditions. Using nitrogen prevents oxidation and allows the technician to see pure thermal degradation. Switching to air or oxygen at a specific point can help identify the combustible carbon content.
This technique is essential for verifying the composition of recycled fibres or checking for the presence of undesirable additives.
