Several parameters are critical for TGA analysis in the context of catalysis:
Temperature Range: The temperature range must be carefully selected based on the material being analyzed. It should cover all relevant thermal events without causing unnecessary decomposition. Heating Rate: A slower heating rate can provide more detailed information about thermal events, but it also extends the duration of the experiment. A balance must be struck depending on the requirements. Atmosphere: The choice of atmosphere (e.g., inert, oxidative, reducing) can significantly influence the TGA results. For instance, an oxidative atmosphere may be used to study the oxidation behavior of catalysts. Sample Mass: The mass of the sample should be optimized to ensure accurate measurement while avoiding issues related to heat and mass transfer limitations.