Differential Scanning Calorimetry of Fibres
topic
DSC of PET fibres (10–20°C/min, N₂ atmosphere): measures Tg (step change in heat capacity, 67–80°C), cold crystallisation exotherm (Tc, absent in fully crystalline FDY), melting endotherm (Tm, 250–260°C). ΔHm integration gives crystallinity. Multiple melting peaks indicate crystal perfection during heating. First scan vs. second scan separates thermal history from intrinsic polymer properties. Modulated DSC (MDSC) separates reversible (Tg, Tm) from irreversible (crystallisation) signals.
Role
DSC is the most widely used thermal analysis technique in polyester fibre characterisation, providing rapid quantitative data on crystallinity, thermal transitions, and processing history essential for both quality control and research.