termogravimetría

Termogravimetry is a technique used to measure the mass of a sample as a function of temperature or time in a controlled atmosphere. It is a type of thermal analysis used to determine the composition of materials, such as the amount of water, solvents, or volatile compounds in a sample. The process involves heating the sample in a controlled environment and continuously measuring its mass.

The termogravimetric analysis (TGA) is typically performed using a thermogravimetric analyzer, which consists of a furnace, a balance, and a temperature controller. The sample is placed in a crucible, which is then heated at a controlled rate. As the sample is heated, it undergoes various physical and chemical changes, such as dehydration, decomposition, or oxidation, which result in a change in mass. The balance measures these changes in mass, and the data is recorded as a plot of mass versus temperature or time.

Termogravimetry is widely used in various fields, including materials science, chemistry, and engineering, to study the thermal stability, decomposition, and oxidation of materials. It is also used to determine the moisture content, purity, and composition of materials. The technique is particularly useful for studying the thermal behavior of polymers, ceramics, and other materials that undergo significant changes in mass during heating.