The detection of ignition temperatures of various materials by photothermal analysis

The ignition temperatures of various common materials were detected by means of a photothermal analysis apparatus. The sample is heated in a tube furnace which is programmed at a linear heating rate; a photomultiplier tube located at the end of the furnace tube is used to detect the ignition process. This technique is potentially useful and is most advantageous when used to supplement DTA or TG data. The instrumental factors which influence the ignition temperature, such as heating rate, furnace atmosphere, and so on. were investigated. Factors such as the sample surface area, mass. density, and others can affect the reproducibility of the curves even if the instrumental factors are held constant.