The Applied Technical Services Family of Companies offers comprehensive thermal testing services conducted to a wide range of standards, such as ASTM D3418.
ASTM D3418 Testing
ASTM D3418 is a testing standard used to determine the transition and crystallization temperatures of polymers through Differential Scanning Calorimetry. The test is widely used in polymer science and materials engineering for characterizing thermal properties of polymers, such as melting temperature, glass transition temperature, and crystallization temperature. Understanding these properties is an important part of assessing the performance, stability, and application suitability of various polymers.
ATS’ environmental testing experts use Differential Scanning Calorimetry to measures how heat flow changes as a material is heated or cooled. This method involves heating a small sample of the polymer and comparing its heat flow with that of a reference material. The difference in heat flow is monitored to detect thermal transitions in the polymer.
Glass transition temperature is the temperature at which a polymer goes from a hard state to a soft state. This is a significant molecular rearrangement that impacts the mechanical properties of the polymer and is vital for polymers used in structural applications, where a shift in mechanical properties due to temperature changes could impact performance.
Melting temperature is another essential parameter determined by ASTM D3418, indicating the point at which semi-crystalline polymers melt into a liquid. A polymer’s crystallization temperature is when a polymer undergoes crystallization upon cooling from a molten state. This property is important in applications where controlled crystallization can affect material properties like strength and stiffness.
Procedure and Applications
Our environmental testing experts begin ASTM D3418 testing by preparing the sample, typically between 5 and 10 mg of polymer, for Differential Scanning Calorimetry. The sample is then sealed to prevent any material loss during the test. Next, the sample material is exposed to controlled heating and cooling cycling.
As the sample is heated or cooled, the DSC instrument records the heat flow into or out of the sample. Thermal transition temperatures are identified as deviations in the baseline heat flow. The heat flow curve is then analyzed to identify the onset, midpoint, and peak temperatures of thermal transitions, and the enthalpies of fusion and crystallization are calculated by integrating the area under the corresponding peaks.
Testing to ASTM D3418 is used for multiple different industries, disciplines, and purposes. ATS’ thermal testing experts conduct these tests for clients to assist in manufacturing material selection and quality control, as well as research and development. Our thermal testing services are most commonly requested by clients working in automotive and aerospace.
The Applied Technical Services Family of Companies
With nearly six decades of experience serving clients working in the manufacturing, building and construction, automotive, aviation, aerospace, and petrochemical industries, ATS’ environmental testing experts have the knowledge and expertise to help your business achieve compliance.
Get in touch today by calling 1 (888) 287-5227 or submitting a form on this page.
