Thermo Mechanical Analysis (TMA)
TMA is used to characterize linear expansion, glass transitions, and softening points of materials by applying a constant force to a specimen while varying temperature. For expansion measurements, a probe rests on a sample on a stage with minimal downward pressure. Other constant force experiments include measurement of penetration, bending, tension, shrinkage, swelling, and creep (sample motion measured as a function of time under an applied load).
Why perform TMA Analysis?
Most materials undergo changes of their thermomechanical properties during heating or cooling. For example, phase changes, sintering steps or softening can occur in addition to thermal expansion. TMA analyses can hereby provide valuable insight into the composition, structure, production conditions or application possibilities for various materials. The application range of instruments for thermomechanical analysis extends from quality control to research and development. Typical domains include plastics and elastomers, paints and dyes, composite materials, adhesives, films and fibers, ceramics, glass, metals, and composite materials.
ThermoMechanical Analysis (TMA):
- Measurement of Dimensional Change
- Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion
- Determination of Material Anisotropy
- Softening Temperatures and Glass Transition
- Linear Thermal Expansion
- ASTM E831; ASTM D696; ASTM D3386