Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) Analysis Services

Need precise thermal analysis for your polymeric materials? Our efficient, standards-compliant Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) Analysis Services provide accurate data on glass transition temperatures, melting points, and thermal properties. With fast turnaround times, expert technical support, and global lab access, we help streamline compliance and optimize material performance.

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What is Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) Analysis at Element?

DSC is a thermo-analytical technique that measures the energy required to heat materials to specific temperatures, compared against an inert reference. At Element, we provide highly precise DSC testing to detect glass transition temperatures, analyze thermal properties, and identify critical material transition points. Our testing supports industries such as polymers, automotive, aerospace, and electronics.

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What can Element offer you for DSC Analysis?

Key tests offered

Element performs DSC testing in laboratories across the US and Europe. Our polymer testing experts have years of experience across a variety of industries, and can help you overcome the unique challenges inherent with non-metallic materials. Tests we provide include:

  • Glass transition temperature detection
  • Melting temperature determination
  • Thermal property analysis
  • Endothermic and exothermic reaction identification
  • Material transition point detection

Components and materials we test

We specialize in testing polymeric and non-metallic materials, providing comprehensive thermal analysis for manufacturing, electronics, automotive, and aerospace applications. Our expertise covers a wide range of material types and compositions, ensuring accurate results for your specific needs.

Methods and solutions offered

Our DSC testing utilizes precise temperature control and energy measurement techniques, comparing your material against inert references to detect thermal events. We provide detailed analysis of heat capacity changes, transition ranges, and deterioration points.

In DSC testing, a small sample of material is heated at a controlled rate. The energy required to heat the sample is compared to that of an inert reference material, both at the same temperature. If the sample requires more energy than the reference, it shows as an endothermic peak, indicating processes like melting, with the peak corresponding to the melting temperature. Conversely, if the sample requires less energy, an exothermic peak is observed. This can indicate a chemical reaction, such as curing, occurring within the sample.

Standards we test to and materials we test

These are our most prevalent requests. Don't see what you're looking for? Contact us!

American Society of Testing & Materials 

  • ASTM D3417, ASTM D3418, ASTM D3895, ASTM D4591, ASTM D7426, ASTM E1131, ASTM E1269, ASTM E1356, ASTM E1858, ASTM E2160, ASTM E2602, ASTM E793, ASTM E794, ASTM E831, ASTM F1514, ASTM F262 

Deutsches Institut für Normung 

  • DIN 51007, DIN 75201 

Institute for Interconnecting and Packaging Electronic Circuits 

  • IPC-TM-650 

International Standards Organization 

  • ISO 11357, ISO 11358, ISO 11359 

Various Customer Specifications 

  • SRM 25R-94, PA-06, PA-14, GM 9094P, MAP N215

Your Challenges, Our Solutions

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Complex Regulatory Compliance

Our comprehensive DSC testing meets multiple international standards and customer-specific requirements, delivering reliable certificates and reports you can trust for compliance documentation.
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Material Performance Under Stress

Predicting how materials react to temperature changes can be challenging. Our DSC testing accurately identifies critical transition points, like melting and glass transition temperatures, ensuring that your materials perform as expected under stress and extreme conditions.
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Uncertainty in Material Stability

Material stability over time is hard to assess without detailed testing. Our DSC service helps identify thermal stability and degradation points, giving you a clear understanding of how materials will behave in real-world applications, improving long-term reliability.
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Costly and Time-Consuming Testing

Traditional testing methods can be slow and require large sample sizes. Our efficient testing processes require minimal sample material while delivering comprehensive thermal analysis data, optimizing your testing investment.

Why Choose Element

Element

Global Reach, Local Support

Access polymer testing expertise across multiple US and European laboratories.

Comprehensive Standards Coverage

Combined American Society of Testing & Materials, Deutsches Institut für Normung, International Standards Organisation and other accreditations, ensuring the highest possible standards.

Industry-Leading Innovation

Continuous development of new testing methods and cutting-edge techniques for diverse applications.

Specialized Expertise

Our experts have years of proven experience working with non-metallic materials, providing a thorough understanding of the challenges these pose.

Frequently asked questions

What does an endotherm indicate in DSC testing?

An endotherm occurs when your sample requires more energy to heat compared to the reference material. The peak of an endotherm indicates the melting temperature of your material.

What does an exothermic peak indicate?

When your sample requires less energy to heat compared to the reference material, an exothermic peak appears. This typically indicates a chemical reaction, such as curing, is taking place.

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Related Articles and Events

Considerations for Measuring Glass Transition Temperature

Glass transition temperature measurements can vary greatly in technique and calculation based on the specific material type, real world application, and many other factors. In this article, Element's polymer scientists provide several considerations relating to glass transition of polymeric materials.

Apr 28, 2023

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