The operation of a Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC) is based on measurement of the thermal response of an unknown specimen as compared with a standard when the two are heated uniformly at a constant rate. The Stanton-Redcroft DSC consists of a furnace containing two identical crucibles, each of which rests on a thin plate located inside the measurement head. Directly beneath the center of each crucible is the junction of a Pt vs. Pt-10Rh differential thermocouple. Any difference in temperature of the two specimens is caused by differences in mass, specific heat, heats of reaction, or phase transitions.

To determine specific heat capacity, a baseline is established by measuring the temperature difference of the two empty crucibles as the temperature is changed at a constant rate over the temperature range of interest. Thermal response records are then acquired for a standard material (usually sapphire) and an unknown under identical conditions. The ratio of the departure of the standard and unknown from the baseline is then used to calculate the specific heat of the unknown.

Features:

• Operation in oxygen, air, or high purity inert gas environments to 1500^oC
• Small sample volumes required (0.5 to 20 cubic mm)
• Specific heat measurements up to 1200^oC with +/- 3.5% error
• Most rapid method for determining specific heat capacity
• Completely automated and computer controlled

Applications:

The DSC is used to measure specific heat capacity (100 to 1200^oC) and heats of transition as well as to detect the temperature of phase changes and melting points in the range of 20 to 1500^oC. Specific heat capacity can be used in conjunction with thermal diffusivity to obtain thermal conductivity.