Lumped parameter equation and thermoanalytical curves

The importance of knowing either an approximate value of the activation energy or the reaction mechanism prior to the analysis of DSC curves using the relation $ln?g(\alpha )?ln?p(x)=ln?\frac{ZE}{\beta R}$ is emphasised on the basis of the results obtained for the decomposition of sodium bicarbonate. The iteration of activation energy in the neighbourhood of an approximate value determined independent of the reaction mechanism eliminates the necessity to carry out a separate isothermal experiment to determine the reaction mechanism. A computer program suitable for the purpose is presented. Comparison of theoretical curves based on the above equation, with experimental α vs. T curves, shows good agreement for α values greater than 0.1. The conclusions, although derived from DSC curves, are general in nature since the treatment is based on α vs. T curves.