Differential Scanning Calorimetry System for Characterization of Polymeric Materials

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Polymers and polymer composites are important engineering materials with applications ranging from low-cost packaging to high performance lightweight structures. Because the properties of polymers and their composites vary drastically depending on several factors, including chemical composition, molecular weight, degree of cross-linking, purity, filler material, degree of crystallization, and processing history, reliable characterization methods are required to ensure suitable processes are developed and appropriate operating conditions are identified for these materials. *** Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) is one important thermoanalytical tool for measuring the thermal properties of polymeric materials, among others. By measuring the heat flux in and out of a material, subtle phase transitions such as melting, glass transition, and crystallization can be detected and the heat capacity of the material determined. DSC is also used to determine the purity, crystallinity, and degree of cure in polymeric materials.*** A DSC system is needed at the University of Calgary to accelerate research activities related to the processing and characterization of polymers and polymer composites. Demand for the requested equipment is particularly high for the research programs of two groups which are known for their respective contributions to the fields of structural fibre-reinforced polymer composites and functional polymer-based nanocomposites. Both research groups require a DSC system to investigate the structural and thermal changes in polymeric materials due to, for example, the addition of fillers or changes in the processing methods used. The equipment will provide reliable thermal characterization of materials which will guide the design of polymer processes and allow investigations into the state of a material before and after processing. The DSC will also be essential for obtaining experimentally measured material properties that can be used in process models to increase their accuracy. *** The proposed equipment will replace an aged DSC system which has recently been decommissioned due to extensive wear.**