Thermomechanical analysis

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The term thermomechanical analysis is the generic term for the measurement of dimensional changes and deformations of a sample that is subject to a temperature program . It is a thermal analysis method .

In TMA in the narrower sense of the word, deformation is measured under mechanical stress. In the dilatometric operating mode, dimensional changes are recorded without stressing the sample if possible. Depending on the operating mode, the TMA allows the determination of:

  • thermal effects (softening, change in the expansion coefficient, swelling in solvents, shrinkage),
  • Temperatures that characterize the thermal effect,
  • Deformation step heights (extent of deformation),
  • Expansion coefficient.

In the Dynamic Load TMA (DLTMA) operating mode, the modulus of elasticity can be measured if the sample shape is favorable .