Physical and Physicochemical labs

OVERVIEW

We are equipped with and experienced in a broad range of microscopic, profilometric, micro-analytic, and sample preparation techniques, especially used to visualize topography, morphology, composition, and (micro-)structure of materials and their (sub-)micron components (surfaces, layers, coatings, cross-sections, particles, latices, …)

Colloid Chemistry

We have a decade-long experience in this field and use our up-to-date techniques for characterization of colloid stability of suspensions, emulsions, dispersions etc. – Our electrokinetic apparatus allows maesurement of zeta potential of macroscopic bodies. With light scattering we determine particle size or sedimentation profiles, solvability of polymers. Quartz Crystal Microbalance is used for adsorption studies.

Rheology

We are capable to tackle virtually all kinds of rheological problems: We measure viscosity in rotational shear flow, determine viscoelastic behavior in oscillatory shear experiments (strain or frequency analysis), or investigate creep and recovery behavior. Extensional viscosity can be measured in a capillary thinning set-up. High and low shear capillary tests and powder flow measurements complete the range of available methods.

Thermal Analysis

We are well-equipped with a broad array of thermal analysis techniques. Thermogravimetry (TGA-DTA/DSC), differential scanning calorimetry (modulated DSC) in combination with photocalorimetry yield information on all kinds of phase transitions and curing kinetics. Thermogravimetry coupled with mass spectrometry identifies species which are thermally released during the thermogravimetric experiment (TGA-MS). Static (TMA) or dynamic analysis (DMA) give access to thermo-mechanical properties of different kinds of materials e.g. paper, polymer films, …

Tensiometry

We measure static and dynamic surface tension with various up-to-date techniques (Wilhelmy balance, Du Nouy Ring, Pendant Drop, Bubble Pressure). Via contact angle measurements (Sessile Drop) in combination with image analysis we characterize the surface energy of a substrate or the spreading / penetration of a liquid on a substrate. Washburn analysis is pllied on powders.

Particle Characterization

Our broad experience encompasses particle sizing and particle counting using a wide array of dedicated apparatus, apt of measuring suspensions (aqueous and non-aqueous) or powders. Surfaces are characterized using gas and mercury porosimetry and gas pycnometry.

TECHNIQUES

  • Check colloidal stability of your dispersions.
  • Measure wetting behavior of any liquid on any substrate.
  • Measure visco-elastic properties of liquids and solids.
  • Characterize thermal behavior of compounds and materials.
  • Characterize phase transitions at different temperatures.
  • Measure coating thickness (single or multilayer).
  • Measure particle sizes and shapes.
  • Characterize materials with respect to their topography, measure texture and roughness parameters.
  • Characterize the inner microstructure and composition of materials.

EQUIPMENT AND METHODS

  • Optical microscopy and microspectrophotometry
  • Electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) and microanalysis (EDX)
  • Sample preparation methods for microscopy, e.g. (ultra)microtomy
  • Stylus profilometry and white-light interferometry
  • Image analysis
  • Capillary viscosimetry, shear and extensional rheometry
  • Electrokinetic analysis, calorimetry, sedimentometry, quartz crystal microbalance
  • Particle sizing in aqueous and non-aqueous media, gas adsorption techniques
  • Wilhelmy-balance, MaximumBubble pressure tensiometer, drop shape analysis
  • DMA, TMA, mDSC, TGA-DTA, TGA-MS

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