A comprehensive array of testing methods are needed to perform testing of material properties. For example, we can verify if the parts are the proper material or determine the composition of organic thin films, surface contamination, fibers or composites using FT-IR, check for contamination using DSC and then determine if the parts are degraded using the melt flow indexer. Additionally, SEM/EDS and XRD techniques are used for identifying corrosion deposits or types of compounds present. Another test that is frequently requested is for VOCs (or Volatile Organic Compounds). They are both human-made and naturally occurring chemical compounds that have such a low boiling points that they emit at room temperature. Most scents or odors are VOCs. Some VOCs are dangerous to human health or cause harm to the environment and are therefore regulated by governing bodies like the EPA. The testing methods for VOCs vary widely, depending on the sample or the application. Here at PTS Testing Service we offer an expansive array of VOC testing methods to assist you with your needs.
Polymer Testing | Metals Testing | SEM/EDS | VOCs
Why Test Polymers?
Polymer testing and analysis employs both physical and analytical methods to verify the chemical, mechanical, and thermal properties of a polymeric material. These properties are instrumental in making sure that the polymer part will perform as required by the end user.
For example, we can verify if the parts are the proper material using FT-IR, check for contamination using DSC, and then determine if the parts are degraded using the melt flow indexer. Additionally, mechanical tests such as durometer hardness, izod impact, tensile, and flexural strength are useful in determining the mechanical integrity of a part.
By using our FT-IR we can determine the composition of organic thin films, surface contamination, fibers or composites. Additionally, thermal characterization can assist in determining performance, process capabilities, quality, and aid in product development.
Polymer Testing and Analysis Capabilities
Failure Analysis of Plastics and Polymers
Tensile Strength of Films, Fibers, and Coatings
Flexural Strength
Modulus by Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) or Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA)
Durometer Hardness
Flammability
Compression Set for Durability and Elasticity
Izod, Charpy, Impact Testing
Heat Deflection Temperature Under Load (DTUL)
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE) by TMA
Heat Aging and Thermal Stability
Accelerated Weathering (UV degradation)
Dielectric Strength/Breakdown
Glass Transition (Tg), Melting point, Crystallinity, and Heat Capacity (DSC)
Gloss and Color
Filler Content, Dehydration/Desolvation, and Decomposition Analysis (TGA)
Polymer Identification (FT-IR)
Inherent/Intrinsic Viscosity
Melt Flow Rate
DSC is an acronym that stands for Differential Scanning Calorimetry. DSC analysis is a technique used to determine what happens to polymers when heated. This particular technique is used to measure thermal transitions which are changes that take place when you heat a polymer. Examples of these changes are melting point, glass transition temperature, specific heat capacity and heat of transition determinations.
How Does DSC Analysis Work?
DSC testing allows you to measure the rate of heat flow in a sample in relation to an empty reference pan. The DSC heats two pans, a sample pan containing your sample and an empty reference pan. The DSC is then programmed to heat both pans at a specific rate, usually 10°C or 20°C/minute. The sample pan will require more heat to keep it heating at the same rate as the empty reference pan because it contains more material. This difference in the amount of heat is what the DSC measures. When polymers melt they absorb heat and therefore this is called an endothermic reaction whereas a curing reaction gives off heat and is considered an exothermic reaction.
The types of materials that are commonly examined during DSC analysis are typically polymers. The properties measured are:
Melting Point
Heat of Fusion
Curing Reaction Times
Polymer Crystallinity
Heat Capacity
What is the Goal?
PTS Testing Service comprehensive DSC analysis services are designed to help you accomplish a number of unique goals in the most comprehensive and cost effective ways possible. These include:
Performing a complete analysis of the properties in question, looking for things such as proper melting temperature, reaction energy and temperature, crystalline phase transition, specific heat or heat capacity, oxidation induction times and more
Verifying that your materials meet the thermal properties of your specifications and to characterize these properties to ascertain what impact they have on the performance of your samples
Applied Technical Services’ DSC analysis is also inherently customizable, allowing us to provide each client a unique service designed to address the needs of their own specific projects. Temperatures can range anywhere from sub-ambient to 725 degrees Celsius. Atmospheres can include nitrogen, oxygen, controlled mixed gases and more. Sample sizes can range from 0.5mg to 100mg.
PTS Testing Service Chemical Analysis Services
At PTS Testing Service, our goal is to provide you with all of the complete, actionable DSC analysis services that you need to make informed, safe decisions moving forward.
What is DSC?
DSC testing, also commonly referred to as “differential scanning calorimetry” testing, is a process designed to measure properties such as specific heat capacity, temperature of phase changes, melting points and more as they relate to a particular sample material. These properties can be commonly classified as thermal transitions. This helps organizations like yours determine variations in the oxidation, composition and crystallinity of materials that you’re working with when compared to reference materials, helping you make the right selections for the types of high quality products and services that you’re releasing into the marketplace on a regular basis.
Practical Applications of the Method
Because of the comprehensive nature of the testing as well as its overall versatility, DSC testing itself is utilized in a wide range of different applications including but not limited to the following:
Measuring The Transition or Softening Temperatures of Materials Such as Plastic or Glass-based Materials, Which Is Entirely Dependent On Not Only The Temperature History Of The Polymer But Also The Amount And Type Of Filler Material
Measuring The Crystallization And Melting Temperatures, Along With Characteristics Like Phase Transition Energies, As They Relate To Certain Organic Compounds
Thermal Stability Of A Particular Material
Reaction Kinetics Of Polymers
Glass Transition Temperature (Tg) Of Amorphous Polymers
Oxidation Temperature
Oxidation Energy
Polymer Melting Temperature
Polymer Heat of Fusion
PTS and DSC Testing
With the comprehensive DSC analysis offered by Applied Technical Services, you and your team will be able to properly determine a number of factors regarding your sample including:
The Temperature at Which Your Polymers Go From a Harder, More Brittle State to a Softer, More Rubbery State Also Known as The Glass Transition Temperature (Tg)
The Temperature at Which a Particular Crystalline Polymer Begins to Melt
The Total Amount of Energy That a Sample Polymer Can Absorb During The Melting Process
The Exact Temperature at Which a Polymer Begins to Crystallize During Both The Heating and Cooling Processes
The Total Amount of Energy That a Sample Material Releases During The Crystallization Process and More
At PTS Testing Service, the overall quality and comprehensive value of our DSC testing is always one of our top priority. If you’re in need of a DSC testing provider who can provide you with all of the accurate, actionable information you need when you need it the most, please don’t hesitate to contact PTS Testing Service today for more information.
METAL TESTS
The Metal Testing Lab at PTS Testing Service provides our experts with modern technology to guarantee accuracy in our clients’ research and testing needs. Our Metal Testing lab services demand extensive expertise, with offerings in mechanical testing, chemical analysis, and nondestructive inspection services to a wide variety of industries.
PTS Testing Service Metal Tests Capabilities
Our Metal Testing Labs are ISO 17025 accredited, providing international credibility and compliance to requirements necessary for customer service excellence. Our Labs also abide by Nadcap certified procedures in a standardized mission for quality assurance for our clients. Regularly offered services by our Metal Testing Labs include:
Chemical Analysis: Alloy and Material Identification, Wet Chemical and Elemental Analysis, High Purity Metals Analysis by Electrodeposition
Mechanical Testing: Tensile, Hardness, Fatigue, Impact, Bend
Nondestructive Testing: Visual, Dye Penetrant, Radiography, Eddy Current, Magnetic Particle, Helium Leak
PTS Testing Service – A Recognized Provider
PTS Testing Service has established its presence as a consulting engineering and inspection services provider throughout numerous industries since. Our lab facilities are equipped with advanced technology allowing us to deliver results promptly (most test results are available within 3 to 5 business days). PTS Testing Service has maintained a reputation of uncovering facts within aerospace/aviation, consumer products, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, power generation, and steel and aluminum industries.
PTS Testing Service Quality Assurance Programs
PTS Testing Service defines its core values and mission in the presence of providing high-quality services to achieve client-service excellence.
COMPLETE LIST OF METALLURGY LINKS
3D Inspections
3D Scanning Services
Brinell Hardness Tests
Computed Tomography
Computed Tomography Metallurgy
CT Services
CT Inspections
Elmendorf Tear Tests
Hardness Testing Labs
Industrial Computed Tomography
Industrial CT Scanning
Intergranular Corrosion Tests
Knoop Hardness Testing
Litigation Support
Material Identification
New Computed Tomography (CT) Scanner
SEM EDS ANALYSIS
SEM EDS analysis allows for microanalysis of submitted samples.
The composition of small wear-metal particles or the composition of an inclusion are two practical examples that highlight the instrument’s analytical capability. PTS Testing Service is ISO 17025 accredited to perform EDS analysis using the scanning electron microscope (SEM) in accordance with the following method: ASTM E1508.
Common SEM EDS Analysis Include:
Contaminants
Inclusions
Wear Metals
Platings/Coatings
General Alloy ID
Corrosion Products
Polymer Filler Material ID
Elemental Mapping
