Thermomechanical analysis (TMA) determines dimensional changes of solids, liquids or pasty materials as a function of temperature and/or time under a defined mechanical force. This technique allows measuring thermomechanical properties, such as phase changes, sintering steps or softening that can occur in addition to thermal expansion. Typical materials that can be analysed are plastics and elastomers, composites, films and fibres, ceramics, glass and metals.
Our system includes a modular humidity generator (MHG 32), a multi-channel temperature controller (TRG 004), a LN2 cooling system (CC 300), a silicon carbide furnace (room temperature to 1550°C), a copper furnace (-150°C to 500°C), a Type K thermocouple (max. 1260°C), and fused silica sample holders (-150°C to 1000°C) for expansion, penetration, tension, and 3-point bending.
Displacement range: ±2500 μm (measuring range 5000 μm) / ±250 μm (measuring range 500 μm)
Digital resolution (displacement): 1.25 nm / 0.125 nm
Force range: 0.001 to 3 N
Digital resolution (force): 0.01 mN
Modulated force: up to 1 Hz
Rated minimum pressure: 10⁻⁴ mbar
Purge gases (sample chamber): oxidizing, reducing, inert, some corrosive gases (non toxic, non flammable).
Protective gases (measurement system enclosure): only inert gases.
Max. sample dimensions (mm): L=30, Ø=12 (expansion and penetration); 24 x 5 (3-point bending, support distances: 10 and 20 mm); 30 x 8 x 1 (tension).
