How to Characterize Thermosets Using Thermal Analysis

Due to the highly temperature-dependent physical behavior of thermosets, thermal analysis is an ideal technique for their identification and characterization.

This webinar discusses the most important thermal properties of thermosets and describes the thermal analysis techniques that can be used to measure them.

What Is a Thermoset?

A thermoset is a polymer that undergoes a particular chemical reaction, known as curing, to form a permanent, crosslinked structure that cannot be melted or remolded to form a new shape. Thermosets are typically rigid, insoluble materials with high mechanical strength and temperature stability.

Examples include epoxy resins, phenolic resins, polyesters and polyurethanes.

How to Characterize Thermosets?

Different thermal techniques can be used to determine the key properties of these materials:

DSC: Useful for determining glass transition, melting, reaction enthalpies, curing and thermal stability.
TGA: Mainly used for composition analysis, thermal stability, decomposition, evaporation and desorption behavior.
TMA: Normally used to study mechanical behavior such as expansion, shrinkage, softening, plus glass transition.
DMA: Best for studying viscoelastic behavior, glass transition and frequency-dependent effects.