Thermogravimetric analysis by TGA, TGA-FTIR and TGA-MS in the laboratory

Chemical analysis Material characterization Problem solving
More than 140 people
More than 140 people at your service
5200 m² laboratory
5200 m² laboratory + 99% of services are provided in-house
Accredited laboratory
Accredited laboratory COFRAC ISO 17025
CIR
CIR Research tax credit

Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is a materials characterization technique, making it possible to observe phenomena such as decomposition or oxidation.

FILAB uses it to help industrial companies assess thermal stability, analyze composition, and ensure reliable quality control.

Your needs: carry out a thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of your materials

What is thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)?

Thermogravimetric analysis, also known as TGA analysis, is a thermal characterization technique..

TGA analysis involves measuring the mass change of a sample as it is heated.. This technique makes it possible to precisely study the thermal behavior of many materials, such as polymers, plastics, and paints.

Principles of TGA

By subjecting a sample to a controlled heating program, TGA measures mass losses or gains associated with phenomena such as decomposition, oxidation, vaporization, or even desorption.
These data are essential for a better understanding of a material’s thermal stability, composition, or even residual content.
Thermogravimetric analysis provides key data on material performance at high temperatures and their evolution under specific conditions.

Our TGA, TGA-FTIR or TGA-MS analysis solutions in the laboratory, state-of-the-art equipment to characterize your materials

The FILAB laboratory has a complete and varied analytical equipment fleet. This enables us to support industrial companies with TGA expertise and TGA-FTIR analysis of their materials (polymers, composites…).

The FILAB laboratory offers tailor-made analysis based on the specific needs of its clients. Our experts are at your side throughout the entire analysis cycle to support you as effectively as possible, right through to the delivery of results. Our experts can also propose sustainable corrective alternatives.

The FILAB laboratory is also able to train your teams in the TGA technique (TGA).

Analytical objectives of thermogravimetric analysis TGA

Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is used to characterize the thermal behavior and composition of materials in order to meet the following objectives:

  • determine characteristic temperatures (evaporation, decomposition, combustion)
  • quantify mass losses (water, solvents, volatile compounds)
  • assess composition (fillers, residues, organic/mineral fraction)
  • analyze the mechanisms and kinetics of thermal degradation
  • compare materials or batches in quality control

Our technical resources: TGA and analytical coupling

Le couplage analytique implique la combinaison de l’ATG avec une ou plusieurs autres techniques d’analyse pour obtenir des informations complémentaires sur l’échantillon étudié. Le principe est basé sur l’utilisation simultanée de différentes méthodes pour analyser les mêmes échantillons sous les mêmes conditions, permettant ainsi une analyse plus approfondie des propriétés et des réactions de l’échantillon lorsqu’il est soumis à des variations de température.

L’ATG peut être couplée (ATG-MS et ATG-FTIR) avec d’autres méthodes analytiques :

 

with Mass Spectrometry (MS), which makes it possible to analyze the gases emitted during the thermal decomposition of the sample. This TGA-MS coupling can identify the composition of the released gaseous products.

with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), which makes it possible to analyze the gases and vapors emitted. The TGA-FTIR coupling provides information on the chemical structure of the released products.

Thus, coupled TGA significantly enriches thermogravimetric analysis by adding detailed chemical dimensions to the mass change data.

The advantages of TGA

Precision and sensitivity of TGA analysis

Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) stands out for its high sensitivity and precision in detecting mass changes. 

It is particularly useful for identifying mass losses related to phenomena such as dehydration, decomposition, oxidation, or other chemical and physical reactions affecting materials.

Control of analysis conditions

TGA offers precise thermal control, making it possible to carry out analysis across a wide range of temperatures.

It also makes it possible to adapt the analysis atmosphere (inert, oxidizing, reducing, etc.) according to industrial constraints, in order to study the behavior of materials under their real operating conditions.

Thermogravimetric analysis tailored to your materials

Polymer thermogravimetric analysis

Thermogravimetric analysis of polymers makes it possible to characterize their thermal behavior, including their stability, decomposition temperature, and residue content. This type of analysis helps to understand the performance of polymers under extreme conditions and to optimize their formulation according to industrial applications. FILAB offers thermogravimetric analysis services for different types of polymers, helping manufacturers ensure the quality and durability of their materials.

Paint thermogravimetric analysis

Thermogravimetric analysis of paint is used to assess the composition and thermal stability of coatings. This analysis makes it possible to determine the resin, pigment, and solvent content, as well as to verify the quality and durability of paints under heat. FILAB offers thermogravimetric analysis services tailored to the needs of the paint and coating industries, helping to optimize formulations and ensure the performance of finished products.

Thermogravimetric analysis of plastics

Thermogravimetric analysis of plastics makes it possible to characterize thermal and decomposition properties. This analysis can be used to identify the composition of plastics, assess their thermal stability, and determine their decomposition rate. At FILAB, we offer TGA thermogravimetric analysis, including technical plastics and consumer plastics, providing valuable insights for improving production processes and developing new materials.

Thermogravimetric analysis of PET

Thermogravimetric analysis of PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is an essential technique for evaluating the thermal stability of this plastic, which is widely used in the packaging and textile fiber industries. This analysis makes it possible to determine the degradation temperature, additive content, and heat-induced behavior of PET. FILAB laboratory offers specialized services for PET thermogravimetric analysis, helping companies ensure the quality and compliance of their products.

Learn more

TGA or DSC: what are the differences in approach?

TGA analysis measures mass loss in a material as a function of temperature, whereas DSC (differential scanning calorimetry) evaluates the heat flows associated with thermal transitions. TGA is preferred for studying composition, decomposition, or thermal stability, while DSC is the method of choice for quantitative enthalpy measurements.

Are TGA and DTA complementary?

Yes, DTA and TGA provide different but complementary information. DTA highlights thermal reactions (melting, crystallization, phase transitions), while TGA quantifies mass changes linked to phenomena such as decomposition or evaporation. Used together, they provide a comprehensive view of a material's thermal behavior.

TGA or TGA: is it the same thing?

TGA makes it possible to validate thermal stability, control residue content, and optimize formulations (filler content, solvents, moisture, etc.). It is an essential method for manufacturers looking to secure their production, control their raw materials, or verify the compliance of their finished products.

FAQ

TGA or TGA: is it the same thing?

Yes. ATG (Thermogravimetric Analysis) and TGA (Thermogravimetric Analysis) refer to exactly the same technique. The former is the French acronym, the latter the English one. In both cases, the aim is to observe the change in mass of a sample as a function of temperature or time.

What are the differences between the analysis: TGA or TGA-MS or TGA-FTIR

There are three commonly used thermogravimetric analyses: TGA, TGA-MS, and TGA-FTIR. Each of these analysis types has its own advantages and disadvantages, as well as a range of common applications and use cases.

Differential thermal analysis (TGA), also known as thermogravimetric analysis, is a commonly used materials characterization technique for studying the thermal properties and stability of samples. There are two types of coupled TGA analysis that can provide more precise information on sample characterization:

  • TGA-MS (mass spectrometry) enables the identification of gases released during thermal decomposition.
  • TGA-FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy) enables the identification of solid decomposition products. By identifying each specific component in complex mixtures, these different TGA analyses offer greater accuracy and a better understanding of materials.

By coupling this TGA technique with FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, FTIR) or mass spectrometry (TGA-MS), it is possible to chemically identify mass losses, released gases, or degradation products during the thermal cycle.

Why carry out a TGA analysis in a laboratory?

Performing thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) in the laboratory provides precise information on the composition, structure, and thermal stability of a material.

This TGA expertise is particularly useful for:

  • quality control of raw materials and finished products
  • identification of unknown materials
  • study of thermal behavior and degradation mechanisms

TGA analysis is therefore widely used in demanding industrial sectors that require detailed materials characterization.

Which materials can be analyzed by TGA?

ATG analysis applies to many materials: polymers, composites, chemicals, powders or solids. At the FILAB laboratory, our ATG equipment is adapted to each matrix.

How do you interpret the results of a thermogravimetric analysis?

Thermogravimetric analysis is a commonly used method for identifying the quantity of a substance and its nature, based on the change in its mass as a function of temperature. 

For interpreting the results, it is essential to know the different stages of the thermal degradation of the substance being analysed and to determine the transition temperatures reached throughout the mass change curve. 

With a good understanding of the key principles, thermogravimetric analysis can provide valuable information to help optimize processes, evaluate materials and identify degradation mechanisms.

Applications of thermogravimetric analysis

Thermogravimetric analysis is a common materials analysis method. It is especially favored in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. 

Common applications of thermogravimetric analysis include assessing the thermal stability of polymers, characterizing the combustion processes of organic materials and determining the decomposition mechanisms of biodegradation compounds.

The results of these analysis are valuable for understanding material properties and their optimal use in industrial applications. 

What are the advantages of TGA analytical coupling?

Coupling Thermogravimetric Analysis (ATG) with other analytical techniques offers multiple advantages. 

  • Comprehensive analysis: The coupling provides an overview of the physical and chemical changes occurring in the sample.
  • Gas identification: Coupled techniques can identify the gases released during thermal decomposition.
  • Understanding reactions: It helps to understand degradation mechanisms and chemical reactions occurring at different temperatures.

Thus, coupled ATG significantly enriches thermogravimetric analysis by adding detailed chemical dimensions to mass change data.

Why carry out a thermogravimetric analysis by TGA?

The results obtained by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) make it possible to identify the evaporation, desorption, decomposition, or combustion temperatures of the material studied. This analysis then makes it possible to identify thermal properties such as: then

  • phase transitions
  • thermal stability
  • chemical composition
  • surface mechanics
  • or even reactivity

Thus, this method is very useful for understanding the mechanisms of thermal degradation of polymers, for example. It is widely used in industry to improve product quality and stability, as well as in the search for new materials in the plastics processing industry , in particular. FILAB laboratory offers its expertise in TGA analysis of your materials in order to obtain results suited to your needs.

What are the applications of TGA thermogravimetric analysis?

Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is used in many industrial sectors to characterize materials.

Common applications:

  • assessment of the thermal stability of polymers
  • determination of filler or moisture content
  • study of thermal degradation mechanisms
  • analysis of residues or ash

These analyses are carried out in a TGA analysis laboratory to address quality, compliance, or product development issues.

How do you interpret the results of a thermogravimetric analysis?

The interpretation of a thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is based on studying the mass variation curve as a function of temperature.

It consists of:

  • identifying the different stages of thermal degradation
  • determining characteristic temperatures (evaporation, decomposition)
  • analyzing the mass losses associated with each phenomenon

TGA expertise makes it possible to link these data to the physicochemical properties of the material and its behavior under real-world conditions.

What is a TGA analysis laboratory?

An ATG analysis laboratory carries out thermogravimetric analysis to characterize the composition and thermal behavior of materials. 

At the FILAB laboratory, our experts rely on ATG equipment to determine thermal stability, mass loss and degradation mechanisms.

Why use an ATG analysis laboratory?

Using an ATG analysis laboratory gives you access to technical expertise, high-performance equipment and reliable interpretation of results. At the FILAB laboratory, ATG thermogravimetric analysis are carried out according to rigorous protocols to meet the needs of R&D, quality control or materials expertise.

In what situations should you contact an ATG analysis laboratory?

Calling on FILAB laboratory for TGA expertise helps address issues related to the composition and thermal behavior of materials:

  • material failure or loss of performance under thermal conditions
  • material non-conformity (filler content, moisture, residues)
  • need to understand thermal degradation mechanisms
  • validation or optimization of formulations in R&D
  • identification of unknown materials or substances
  • study of thermal stability under use or storage conditions
What is the price of a thermogravimetric analysis?

The price depends on the material, the number of samples and the analysis conditions. At the FILAB laboratory, a personalized quote is provided based on your analytical needs.

How do you get a quote for an ATG analysis?

To get a quote, you can contact our teams via our contact form, by phone or by email. Simply send us your requirements (material type, desired ATG thermogravimetric analysis, any applicable standard, urgency, number of samples, etc.).

How long does it take to get a quote for an ATG analysis?

The time required to obtain a quote for an ATG thermogravimetric analysis is generally 24 to 48 hours after receipt of your request.

The filab advantages
A highly qualified team
A highly qualified team
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
(Staves available on www.cofrac.com - Accreditation number: 1-1793)
A complete analytical facility of 5,200m²
A complete analytical facility of 5,200m²
Tailor-made support
Tailor-made support
Video debriefing available with the expert
Video debriefing available with the expert
Thomas ROUSSEAU Scientific and Technical Director
Ask for your quote