Abstract
In this laboratory experiment, students performed thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) coupled with mass spectrometry (MS) of herbaceous materials (TGA-MS) and learned to analyze mass-loss curves, as well as identify common fragmentation ions. The experiment is the first one to present the application of TGA in a currently relevant topic: biomass conversion. A preweighed dry sample of herbaceous origin treated to 700 °C with a steady temperature increase rate exhibited the following mass-loss steps: desorption of adsorbed species (e.g., H2O and CO2) followed by char formation via emission of volatile organic compounds and small inorganic molecules. Next, when the process is carried out in the presence of oxygen, the formed char combusted leaving only the ash in the thermobalance crucible. The proportions of these mass losses are significant in the study of biomass for any potential application, such as in the production of energy in plants which already currently utilizes a mixture of coal and plant-based mat...
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