TA Instruments

Is your datasheet misleading you? Material spec sheets provide basic info, but not enough to predict failure, processing effects, and response to environmental changes. Join this webinar as Shoab Ahmed Chowdhury, Ph. D. and Karim Elhattab, Ph.D. share the essential testing methods you need for successful polymers. ?? Date: December 4, 2024 ?? Time: 11:00 AM EST We'll cover mechanical (DMA, tensile, fatigue) analysis methods that go beyond the datasheet and help you predict performance, processability, and reliability. Don’t miss out!

Dynamic Mechanical Analysis: Where Thermal Analysis Meets Rheology Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) sits at the intersection of thermal analysis and rheology, offering insights into the performance of materials in their solid state—evaluating how molded parts perform under real-world service conditions. What is Thermal Analysis? Thermal analysis involves studying how materials respond to changes in temperature or time. It measures changes in physical properties as a function of temperature or time. This helps predict how materials will behave under different temperature conditions or over time in service. What is Rheology? Rheology is the study of the flow and deformation of materials, encompassing both liquid and solid states. In materials science, it primarily focuses on the viscoelastic properties of substances—how they deform under stress and how they flow under different conditions. Classic rotational rheology examines materials in their molten state, focusing on the flow behavior and moldability of resins during processing. This is crucial for understanding material behavior during manufacturing processes like molding or extrusion. In contrast, DMA assesses the mechanical properties of materials in the solid state. This is important for predicting how molded products will perform in their intended applications. DMA quantifies critical viscoelastic properties: Tensile Storage Modulus, E’ (Elastic Behavior): Measures stiffness. Tensile Loss Modulus, E” (Viscous Behavior): Highlights energy dissipation. Tan δ (Damping): Shows the balance between elasticity and viscosity. From Processing to Performance Rotational rheology ensures smooth resin flow and proper moldability during manufacturing, while DMA validates that the final molded part will meet performance expectations in its service environment. By combining the insights of these complementary techniques, material scientists and engineers can optimize both processing efficiency and product reliability. Together, these tools provide a comprehensive picture of a material's lifecycle—from manufacturing to end use. As my friend Gregory Kamykowski from TA Instruments says all the time, “Rheology is fun,” and that includes dynamic mechanical analysis. Want to explore how these techniques can help with material challenges or product development? Let’s connect and discuss further, [email protected]. #plastics #polymerscience #rheology #thermalanalysis #DMA