Differential scanning calorimetry how does it work

Figure 1. Heat Flux DSC comprises the sample and reference holder, the heat resistor, the heat sink, and the heater. Heat of heater is supplied into the sample and the reference through heat sink and heat resistor. Heat flow is proportional to the heat difference of heat sink and holders. Heat sink has the enough heat capacity compared to the sample. Intertek laboratory scientists offer substantial expertise in the field of thermal analysis. Determination of endotherms, exotherms and weight loss on heating or cooling are performed.

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Proper usage and protocols are essential for ensuring the instrumentation and samples are correctly prepared and experiments safely executed. These protocols are also documented in the US Library of Medicine. General guidelines might differ from instrument to instrument. Always check the instrument manual or contact the manufacturer when in doubt.

Retrieval of data from the experiment can provide a number of insights into the sample. Looking for the perfect analytics instrument for YOUR next big discovery? Then the sample is heated with a definite amount of heat. The difference in temperature between sample and surrounding medium gives the heat capacity of the sample and information about heat release and consumption of the sample.

Besides that, the differential scanning technique uses a sample and reference that are facing the same conditions and their signal is directly subtracted from each other. DSC analysis is used for many applications in a broad range of industries like polymers as well as for fundamental research in academia. Examples include glass transition determination and the investigation of chemical reactions, melting and crystallization behavior.

Other DSC applications deal with the influence of additives, fillers or the processing of materials.