I have six different type of composite which is made of glass and kenaf fiber.
The ratio of glass and kenaf is different in each type from the other is:
1- 100% glass- 0% kenaf
2- 80% glass- 20% kenaf
3- 60% glass- 40% kenaf
4- 40% glass- 60% kenaf
5- 20% glass- 80% kenaf
6- 0% kenaf- 100% kenaf
I would like to investigate the effect of this hybridization. Since the size and weight of the samples are very small for TGA , how I can take the sample for TGA?
First, as the sample size for TGA is small (usually 20 to 30 mg), good mixing is desirable "a priori". Second, I suggest to perform as much as 3 runs of each material, then use the middle/typical, or have the average, depending on the software you are using. In order to minimize randomness, sample weight and shape should be as alike as possible, as should be for the other parameters (atmosphere, heating program, crucible). Good luck!!!
Hi since the sample size for TGA is small (usually 20 to 30 mg), therefore the composite for testing should be made as uniform as possible.
The diameter of the fibre and the production method is critical. Ideal the sample for test should be represent the block material, so the homogenous of the sample in mini Marco scale (necessary in micro-scale but should be much smaller than the sample size.
In the thermogravimetric measurements you are monitoring the sample´s weight. It is also important to keep similar geometry of the hybrid composites that you want to compare. In your case, you can make a heating from ambient temperature up to 700ºC at a heating rate of 20ºC/min under air or nitrogen depending of the main objective.
If you need better resolution of the transitions you should scan slower, typically it is used 10ºC/min. With the TGA curve and the respective derivative curve you can perform a good thermal characterization.
You can try use special large containers which will allow you to analyse samples of several hundreds of milligrams weight - that should be enough to make homogenous sample. Or you can use a micro mill (such as used for preparing samples in IR spectroscopy) and then analyse a powder (care is needed about moisture absorbance).
I’d suggest grinding the samples using a knife mill (similar to that to ground coffee). In this way, you’ll get a well homogenized sample. Nevertheless, you’ll probably want to check the effect of grinding, using samples grounded at different times
Dear all,
Thank you very much for your helpful answers.
I will consider all your points.
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