19 - Thermal analysis of nanoparticles: Methods, kinetics, and recent advances

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of the thermal techniques available to study nanoparticles, with particular attention to thermogravimetric analysis, calorimetry, and differential scanning calorimetry. The advantages of thermal analysis for nanoparticle characterization include minimal sample preparation and rapid analysis of a number of properties. Relevant measurements include: purity and composition, phase changes, coating/functionalization composition and properties, and kinetics of reactive processes. Because of their low cost and high speed, thermal analysis tests are suitable for quality control, environmental monitoring, and research, particularly for verification of the nanoparticle’s morphology and composition. New thermal analysis techniques are being developed that require much less sample. As these techniques become robust, they will broaden the scope and applications for thermal analysis of nanoparticles.