Thermomechanical analysis (TMA) probes the response of the sample’s thermal, dynamic, and static-mechanical properties as the ambient temperature around a sample is changed over time.
See also: Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA), which can be performed under variable temperature conditions e to achieve similar results to TMA experiments.
TMA measurement of dimensional change (shrinkage and expansion) of oriented polyethylene film acquired in tensile mode.
TMA measurement of multilayer film thickness by a penetration test. Layer thickness is annotated on the plot
The MCR 702 MultiDrive is a combination DMA / Rheometer with the flexibility and precision to facilitate a huge array of test mode options.
During a TMA measurement, a probe is set at rest on the surface of a sample with no applied force. Then, heat is applied, causing the temperature to rise and inducing material property changes that deform the specimen.
Hyper-fine measurements are taken of the probe’s vertical displacement, illuminating the sample’s morphological and mechanical response to temperature flux.
During heating, one can also apply a controlled force across the probe (either dynamic/variable or unchanging/static), enabling different measurement modes that assess a wide assortment of mechanical properties as a function of temperature.