Simultaneous TG/DTA - DTG-60 Series

Significance of Simultaneous TG/DTA Analysis

Thermogravimetric analysis (TG) combined with differential thermal analysis (DTA) enables simultaneous measurement of mass changes and heat flow events in materials under controlled temperature programs. This dual measurement provides comprehensive insight into thermal stability, decomposition mechanisms, phase transitions, and reaction kinetics. In both research and quality control, high sensitivity and accuracy are essential for characterizing polymers, pharmaceuticals, catalysts, and advanced materials.

Study Objectives and Overview

This application note presents the DTG-60 Series instrument, designed for high-accuracy simultaneous TG/DTA measurements. Key aims include demonstrating improved measurement stability, versatility in gas atmosphere experiments, broad weighing range, and automation features that enhance laboratory throughput.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The DTG-60 Series employs a Roberval top-loading balance paired with an X-shaped light fulcrum to maintain constant sensitivity regardless of sample position or center-of-gravity shifts during melting or expansion. Thermal events are detected as voltage differences between sample and reference. The system supports a ±500 mg TG range with 1 g capacity and offers dedicated flow channels for reaction gases, enabling direct gas delivery to the sample without dead volume. Automated features include a template function for report generation and an auto-cooling fan to shorten cycle times. An optional autosampler (DTG-60A) allows up to 24 unattended measurements with automatic analysis and output.

Key Findings and Discussion

• Roberval balance and low-thermal-expansion fulcrum minimize sensitivity drift and baseline noise, ensuring reproducible TG signals even for small masses (e.g., 1 mg calcium oxalate).
• Simultaneous TG and DTA curves clearly resolve melting, crystallization, sublimation, decomposition, and polymerization events.
• Direct gas flow control permits qualitative and quantitative studies of oxidation, reduction, and other gas-solid interactions without switching delays.
• Automation features streamline data processing, reducing operator intervention and improving laboratory efficiency.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Materials Development: Characterization of thermal stability and phase behavior in polymers, composites, and ceramics.
• Quality Control: Rapid screening of raw materials and final products for moisture content, filler levels, and thermal degradation profiles.
• Catalysis and Reaction Engineering: Investigation of catalyst activation/deactivation, reaction enthalpies, and gas-solid reaction kinetics.
• Regulatory Compliance: System meets GMP, FDA 21 CFR Part 11, and other computerized system guidelines for electronic records and signatures.

Future Trends and Opportunities

• Integration with advanced data analytics and machine learning for automated pattern recognition in thermal profiles.
• Expansion of modulated temperature techniques to separate overlapping thermal events and improve kinetic modeling.
• Development of micro- and nano-scale sample holders for ultra-small sample analysis in advanced materials research.
• Enhanced coupling with spectroscopic detectors (e.g., FTIR, MS) for evolved gas analysis to identify decomposition products in real time.

Conclusion

The DTG-60 Series offers high-precision, reliable, and versatile simultaneous TG/DTA capability. Its robust design minimizes errors arising from sample position and thermal expansion, while automated features and flexible gas control channels address diverse analytical needs. This instrument enhances throughput and data quality across research, development, and QA/QC laboratories.