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permits separation, detection, identification and quantitation at the part per billion (ppb) level of organic molecules with molecular weights less
than 1120 Daltons
using direct liquid injection or solid phase microextraction
(SPME). GC-MS can identify and quantitate residual solvents or environmental stress
cracking (ESC) agents in broken parts or pipes, smells and odors,
phthalates such as DBP, BBP, DEHP, DnOP, DINP,
DIDP and other plasticizers, bisphenol
A (BPA), antioxidants, flame retardants, nucleating agents, anti-static
agents, lubricants and slip agents, colorants and residual monomers and
other contaminants.
 identifies the organic or
polymer composition and structure by analysis of chemical functional groups
by transmission, reflectance, attenuated total reflectance (ATR) and
micro-ATR. Analyzes solids and liquids.
The integral high resolution microscope can analyze fine particles,
surface films/residues and contaminants. FTIR analysis can detect oxidation
and other chemical changes.
measures the thermal transitions
of polymers including onset and peak melting temperature, glass transition
temperature (Tg), recrystallization temperature, crystallinity percentage, softening temperature,
specific heat and degree of cure. DSC can determine the presence of
contamination or mixed materials and provide insight into molding
history. Oxidative-induction time
and temperature (OIT) methods can benchmark antioxidant/stabilizer
performance.
measures weight change with
temperature in air, oxygen or in an inert atmosphere, allowing us to deformulate plastics and rubbers by determining plasticizer or oil content, filler or reinforcement
percentage, carbon black content and polymer percentage. Other parameters such as decomposition
temperature and thermal stability of materials can be determined up to
1000°C.
measures the rate of extrusion
of thermoplastics through an orifice at a prescribed temperature and load,
thus determining the flow rate of a material. Often referred to as Melt
Flow Rate, Melt Volume Rate or Melt Index, the rate is related to
the molecular weight of a polymer, allowing us to differentiate between high
and low molecular weight materials (as with polyethylene). Material
degradation from poor molding practices or environmental exposure can be
determined as degraded materials flow more quickly as a result of reduced
molecular weight. Testing is conducted per ASTM D1238 or ISO 1133.
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