Instrument Analysis

The most common instruments used in resin analysis are infrared spectrometers (FT-IR) and differential scanning calorimeters (DSC).
In addition to being able to determine the type of resin, these can also be used to evaluate crystal structures and bonded surfaces, depending on how the resin is used.
Another instrument used in conjunction with these is a scanning electron microscope with elemental analysis equipment (SEM-EDX), which can analyze all elements in a microscopic area in a short time frame.　

Ⅰ. Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR)

When a molecule is exposed to infrared radiation, it absorbs an amount of radiation equivalent to the energy of the oscillations between the atoms that make up the molecule.
The amount absorbed can be used to determine the structure of a compound. This is particularly useful for determining the structure of organic compounds.

Infrared spectroscopy: Example with nylon resin
Infrared spectroscopy: Example with nylon resin
Infrared spectroscopy: Example with PPS resin
Infrared spectroscopy: Example with PPS resin

Ⅱ. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC)

Example with PBT resin Example with PBT resin

Many thermoplastic resins, such as nylon, PBT and PPS, change from a solid to a liquid when gradually heated up. The temperature at which this change occurs is called the melting point, and as it is specific to each polymer, it can be used to determine the polymer's type.
Conversely, molten resin changes from a liquid to a solid as it gradually cools down. The temperature at which this happens is called the crystallization temperature. The crystallization temperature of the same resin can vary depending on the components it contains.

Ⅲ. Scanning Electron Microscopes with Elemental Analysis Equipment (SEM-EDX)

When a sample is exposed to an electron beam, many other signals are generated besides secondary electrons.
Among these signals, elemental analysis can detect characteristic X-rays with an element-specific wavelength (energy) on elements between B (boron) and U (uranium).

Element Mass Concentration Number of Atoms
  % Concentration （%）
Na K 0.66 0.90
Mg K 1.61 2.09
Al K 11.22 13.15
Si K 46.26 52.08
K K 0.61 0.49
Ca K 39.65 31.28
Total 100.0  

Example with glass fibers

Instrument Analysis Case Study
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