Determination of kinetic parameters from TG curves by non-linear optimization

Abstract

The results obtained so far by kinetic analysis of non-isothermal experiments indicate that the kinetic parameters found by the conventional methods, in general, do not describe the experimental curve in an optimum manner. This is due to the fact that the initial differential equation is transformed into the logarithmic and, consequently, linear form and that the initial and final weights of the conversion curve cannot be determined exactly, which may falsify the slope of the curve.Investigations have shown that the determination of the kinetic parameters by non-linear optimization (simplex method) results in a better fit of the theoretical conversion curve to the experimental one. But this procedure gives optimum results only when the initial and final weights of the reaction can be determined exactly. If this is impossible, exact parameters can be obtained only by the use of the non-standardized TG curve.Examples are cited to prove that it is possible to evaluate overlapping reactions by the formation of intervals. However, the evaluation of conversion curves merely by the use of mathematical methods can easily result in an erroneous interpretation of the reaction course investigated. Therefore, it is necessary to check the mathematical results as to their physical and chemical meaning.