Differential scanning calorimetry process control

Strict control of the fusion process is imperative. In addition to thickness, hardness, continuity and adhesion checks, correct cure may be assessed by differential scanning calorimetry techniques, which are designed to measure any difference in the glass transition temperature of a laboratory-cured powder and the cured coating taken from the factory-coated pipe. 

Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) was used for a long time in the field of process safety [21-23], This is essentially due to its versatility for screening purposes. The small amount of sample required (micro-calorimetric technique) and the fact that quantitative data are obtained, confer on this technique a number of advantages. The sample is contained in a crucible placed into a temperature controlled oven. Since it is a differential method, a second crucible is used as a reference. This may be empty or contain an inert substance. 

The use of the Brabender Plasticorder is widespread in the development and quality control of formulations destined to be used in uPVC foam extrusion applications. The morphology transformations associated with the process have been widely studied but the particularities of the application have not often been taken into account - low K-value and high concentration of high molecular weight process aid. This work uses a commercially viable formulation to examine the fusion aspect of the transformation process. Differential scanning calorimetry is used to observe the degree of fusion. 9 refs. 

Dziki and coworkers used NIRS to monitor the mobility of water within the sarafloxacin crystal lattice. The study involved the veterinary product sarafloxacin in an aqueous granulation process. A failed lot of the product was indistinguishable from an acceptable lot using X-ray powder diffraction, midinfrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and TGA. NIRS detected intermediate stages of water absorption in the granulation and enabled the process to be controlled. 

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