Thermogravimetric analysisTGA

A thermal analysis technique that measures heat flow into or out of a small sample as it is heated, cooled or held at constant temperature. For thermosets it reveals the glass transition temperature, residual exotherm and degree of cure; for thermoplastics it shows melting and crystallisation behaviour.

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 particulate material blended into a resin, adhesive or sealant to modify its properties or reduce cost, for example calcium carbonate for bulk, fumed silica for thixotropy, or hollow microspheres for lightweight fairing compounds. Fillers also help control shrinkage, exotherm and sag.