Dilatometry
Dilatometry is a powerful analytical technique to determine the dimensional changes in a material as a function of temperature.
In a dilatometry experiment, a sample is placed into a sample holder with one end brought into contact with a push-rod. The sample and holder are then enclosed within a furnace where the sample is subjected to a prescribed temperature program of heating, cooling, or isothermal conditions. During the experiment, the linear dimensional change (expansion or contraction) of the sample is measured by a highly accurate displacement sensing system.
Dilatometry can be used to test a wide range of materials including ceramics, glasses, and metals. It provides measurements of a wide variety of properties including linear thermal expansion, coefficient of thermal expansion, softening point, and glass transition temperature.
EAG Laboratories performs thermal expansion analysis using a Bahr DIL802 True Differential Dilatometer.
Ideal Uses of Dilatometry
Determination of:
- Linear thermal expansion
- Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE)
- Softening point (SP)
- Glass Transition Temperature (Tg)
Strengths
- Programmable temperature: heating and cooling ramps, isothermal steps
- High CTE accuracy (0.01 x 10-6 K-1)
Limitations
- Sample size range: sample length must be 10, 25 or 50 mm; maximum sample diameter is 7 mm
- Atmosphere: system can only be operated in air
Dilatometry Technical Specifications
- Sample length: 10, 25 or 50 mm
- Maximum sample diameter: 7 mm
- Maximum change of length: 4 mm
- Length resolution: 10 nm
- Temperature resolution: 0.05°C
- CTE accuracy: 0.01 x 10-6 K-1
- Sample holder: Fused silica
- Atmosphere: air
- Temperature range: 100 – 1000°C
- Maximum heating rate: 100°C/min
Would you like to learn more about using Dilatometry?
Contact us today for your Dilatometry needs. Please complete the form below to have an EAG expert contact you.