Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA)

Thermomechanical Analysis Main Image
TMA measurement of multilayer film thickness by a penetration test. Layer thickness is annotated on the plot

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.

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Thermomechanical Analysis Services

Thermomechanical Analysis

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.

Sample Requirements

Example Outputs

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

Instruments Used

Anton Paar MCR 702

Anton Paar MCR 702

The MCR 702 MultiDrive is a combination DMA / Rheometer with the flexibility and precision to facilitate a huge array of test mode options.

  • Maximum Torque: 230 mNm
  • Normal Force Range: 0.005 N to 50 N
  • Maximum Temperature: 1000 °C
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TA Instruments Q400EM

TA Instruments Q400EM

  • Temperature Range: -150 to 1000 °C
  • Displacement Resolution: < 0.5 nm
  • Force Range: 0.001 to 2 N
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How TMA Works

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.