Thermoanalytic measurements with oxides at temperatures up to 2000 degreesC

DTA/DSC setups by different commercial suppliers allow nowadays routine the rmoanalytic investigations in different atmospheres (reductive, oxydizing, partially reactive) for t less than or equal to 1600 degrees C. Measurement s at higher t less than or equal to 2000 degrees C are only possible within inert atmosphere (noble gases), as the relevant construction materials are sensitive with respect to other gases. This circumstance, together with th e small palette of construction and crucible materials, reduces the possibi lities for thermoanalytic measurements, especially for oxides. The paper di scusses some properties of construction materials that are used for measure ments in metal oxide systems. It turns out, that thermoanalytic measurement s with some oxides are impossible within commercial DTA setups. In any case , TG and mass spectrometer data need a detailed discussion if obtained at h igh temperature, as chemical interaction of species present within the eman ating gas with constructive parts of the apparatus have to be taken under c onsideration. (C) 1999 Published by Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserv ed.