In the field of thermal analysis, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and differential thermal analysis (DTA) are two similar but distinct techniques used to characterize samples by measuring their response to heat in comparison with an inert reference. This differential response can provide a range of information on a material’s physical properties, including melting point, glass transition temperature and crystallization temperature. Additionally, DSC and DTA can be used for quality control purposes, for example, by detecting a deviation from a material’s expected melting point due to degradation. DSC and DTA differ in a number of ways, including in instrumentation and the level of information that can be derived from the data each technique provides. This article explains some of the similarities and differences between these thermoanalytical techniques and provides some guidance on which technique may be best for your application.
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