In the EN 12614 standard, which is a European standard, test methods for determining the glass transition temperature of polymers by differential thermal analysis or differential scanning calorimetry are defined. These test methods are applied to polymers in granular form (polymers under 60 sieve and larger than 250 microns, avoiding grinding if possible) or any fabricated shape into which suitable samples can be cut. These test methods, which determine the behavior of a polymer with respect to temperature changes, are useful for specification acceptance.
These test methods consist of heating or cooling the sample at a controlled rate in a controlled atmosphere. During testing, a suitable sensing device constantly monitors:
The glass transition of the sample is characterized in the recording chart by the change of the baseline during heating or cooling. The test should be performed under an inert blanket (nitrogen) to prevent the sample from reacting with air during the temperature cycle. The output of the inert gas should be controlled with a flow meter. Additionally, some polymers can react close to the transition temperature, so care must be taken to distinguish between reaction and transition.
Glass transition temperature is an important material property of adhesives. The measurement results ensure that the adhesive has been mixed and cured correctly. The EN 12614 standard offers two standard test methods:
This standard covers guidelines, apparatus, sample preparation, thermal cycling, and interpretation of results for both methods.
The differential scanning calorimetry test method is also defined in other standards, including ASTM E1356, ASTM D3418, and EN ISO 11357. The differential thermal analysis test method is also defined in the ASTM E1640 standard.
Among the numerous tests, measurements, analyses, and evaluations our organization provides for businesses in various sectors, we also offer testing services for determining the glass transition temperatures of polymers used in the protection and repair of concrete structures, in accordance with the EN 12614 standard, thanks to our trained and expert staff and advanced technological equipment.
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