Using isothermal microcalorimetry for the prediction and testing of long-term properties of materials and products

The use of isothermal microcalorimetry (MC) as a sensitive monitor for slow reactions is demonstrated in a number of examples. In Example 1 the spontaneous decomposition of a nitrate ester propellant is studied and the absolute degradation rate estimated. Example 2 illustrates how MC can be used for comparing the rate of oxidative ageing at different O₂ concentrations. Synergetic effects between oxygen and moisture in accelerated ageing of nitrile rubber are evaluated from a so-called 4-point test in Example 3. The last example shows a simple MC technique for rapid determination of moisture permeability through a polymeric sealant.