Differential scanning calorimetryDSC

The temperature region over which an amorphous or partly amorphous polymer changes from a rigid, glassy state to a softer, rubbery one. It sets a practical upper service temperature for resins and adhesives and can be reduced by absorbed moisture or incomplete cure.

The heat released by a thermosetting resin as it cures. In thick sections or large mixed volumes the temperature rise can be severe enough to cause discolouration, cracking or degradation, so laminate thickness per pass and mixing quantities are managed to control it.

A thermal analysis technique that applies a small oscillating deformation to a specimen while temperature or frequency is varied, measuring storage modulus, loss modulus and tan delta. It is a sensitive method for determining the glass transition temperature and degree of cure of resins, adhesives and composites, and is also used on bituminous and polymeric roofing materials.

A thermal analysis technique that records the mass of a sample as it is heated under a controlled atmosphere, revealing decomposition temperatures, filler or fibre content and volatile content. It is often run alongside DSC to characterise polymers, resins and composite formulations.