Differential Scanning Calorimeter


Differential Scanning Calorimeter

The DSC is operable from -40 to 750 °C. It provides rapid thermodynamic and kinetic data for various materials and reactions. Data may be collected under inert or reactive atmospheres. The DSC is calibrated against NIST traceable standards consisting of indium (NIST SRM 2234) and zine (NIST SRM 634). Calibrations are verified by use of a secondary standard consisting of high purity tin.

Thermokinetic parameters (activation energy and pre-exponential factor) may be determined from isothermal DSC and a variety of methods based on dynamic data collected for a series of program rates. Preferred thermokinetic evaluations are determined with the Flynn/Wall/Ozawa method described in ASTM E 698.

Evaluation of fundamental thermodynamic data such as melting point, enthalpy of fusion, enthalpy of vaporization, oxidative induction time, and specific heat capacity are also determined from dynamic DSC measurements.



Thermal Curve for Azodicarbonamide

The DSC scan shows the exotherm for decomposition of azodicarbonamide. This molecule is useful as a foaming agent and a gas generator.



Thermal Curve for Explosive RDX

DSC is useful for monoitoring shelf-life of explosives and propellants. The DSC scan shows the exotherm for decomposition of 1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazocyclohexane. During World War II, this explosive was known as “Research Department Explosive” or RDX.



Thermal Curve for Pyrotechnic ZPP

DSC is used for monoitoring shelf-life of pyrotechnics. The graph shows a small endotherm associated with the polymorphic transition of potassium perchlorate followed by an exotherm associated with ignition of the zirconium potassium perchlorate blend. This pyrotechnic is used in the manufacture of ignitors.

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