I've synthesized a handful of polyurethanes for my PI and run these samples through our TGA to determine the temperature at which the polymer is 90% of its original weight. My PI has now asked me to type up a summary of my findings and I'm not sure what to say about the 90% weight data. What is the significance of the temperature at which a polymer is 90% of its original weight?

 

Thanks very much!

Some polymers (PA6) absorb more than 10% humidity, so 10% mass loss would only mean "unusually dried" for them. For other ones, 10% mean irreversibly destroyed, but capable to hold in place until the fire brigade arrive.

Some polymers (PA6) absorb more than 10% humidity, so 10% mass loss would only mean "unusually dried" for them. For other ones, 10% mean irreversibly destroyed, but capable to hold in place until the fire brigade arrive.

 

I think my PI is looking for the latter of the two. Thank you for your help!