Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC)

Technological advances in recent years have led to major developments in differential scanning calorimetry (or DSC). New techniques have emerged, as have new applications. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of the equipment, experimental methodology and applications.

The first part describes the principles of DSC (differential scanning calorimetry) and the different experimental techniques (DSC and coupled methods). The second part is devoted to good experimental practice. It stresses the importance of baseline and instrument calibration. It also looks at the factors that can influence results, both in terms of the appearance of the curves recorded and sources of error. Without being exhaustive, the third part presents numerous DSC applications. Finally, the measurement of isobaric mass heat capacity is specifically covered in part four.

Temperature modulated differential scanning calorimetry (TMDSC) is the subject of a special feature in [P 1 206] .