Coupling the simultaneous thermobalance (TGA or TGA-DSC) to a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC-MS) can yield findings to help in identifying the components released. This company, in collaboration with Joint Analytical Systems GmbH (JAS), has reportedly forged a breakthrough in reaction gas analysis.

Reaction gases from the STA are fed directly into the GC valve box by means of a heated transfer line. Via a sample loop, the substances then arrive at the GC column, where they are separated and then analyzed by means of a mass selective detector. What sets the new system apart is the fact that the start of the measurement is event-driven. This enables temperature-correlated detection of the substances released, which in turn allows for direct correlation with mass loss steps.

The system has already been installed at various laboratories, including Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL); Chevron Energy Co.; the University of Oklahoma’s Department of Chemical, Biological, and Materials Engineering; and National Defence in Gatineau, Quebec.

For more information, visit www.netzsch-thermal-analysis.com.