Dynamic Mechanical Analysis measures the mechanical and viscoelastic properties of materials as a function of time, temperature, frequency, atmosphere, or a combination of these parameters. The most important feature that determines the performance of any Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer (DMA) is how the stress/force is applied to the sample and how the resulting strain/displacement is measured. The new DMA Q800 instrument operates over a wide temperature range (-150 to 600°C) and provides multiple modes of deformation including dual/single cantilever and 3-point bending, tension, compression, and shear. The generous array of deformation modes permits the characterization of various materials such as high-stiffness composites, elastomers, soft foams, thin films and fibers. The instrument incorporates a unique technology that provides superior performance and versatility using a linear drive motor technology with precise stress control. Ultra sensitive optical encoder is used to measure the strain and the air bearing technology insures virtually friction-free movement. The combination of these features is far superior to the conventional stepper motors, LVDT strain measurement devices, and mechanical springs. Thus, due to the excellent 1 nanometer resolution of the optical encoder, very small amplitudes can be measured precisely.
The applications of DMA Q800 are very diverse and provide innovative solutions to production and R&D facilities. Examples of such applications are: the study of curing of supported thermosets, gels, adhesives, high viscosity resins and other highly damped materials; measurement of glass transition of pressure sensitive adhesives; measurement of the effect of the rate of deformation on the glass transition of polymers; Assessing the effects of plasticizers and other additives such as fillers, modifiers, and colorants on modulus and transition temperatures of polymers; characterization of the glass transition of Printed Circuit Boards (PCB’s); characterization of packaging films using creep.
For more information about EMSL’s testing services, please contact EMSL at 800-220-3675, email info@EMSL.com, or visit www.EMSL.com.