A Typical Thermogravimetric Experiment

An experiment is described to follow the mass losses when calcium oxalate monohydrate is heated from room temperature to 1000 °C. The object of the experiment is to find out how many steps of weight loss are seen and the temperatures at which the processes occur and if any reactions overlap. The % weight losses are to be calculated and compared with % losses from probable reaction mechanisms. 

Some of the instructions may not be applicable to all types of equipment. Newer models are likely to be simpler to use, but analysts may be faced with operating older models of thermobalance. Tips will be given on the best procedure. 

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