Physical and Thermo-Mechanical Characterization

Physical and thermomechanical characterization of ceramic and composite materials is essential to accurately predict performance under real operating conditions. Advanced physical analysis techniques enable the determination of key parameters such as density, porosity, microstructure, and phase distribution—critical factors influencing material quality, reliability, and durability.

Thermomechanical testing evaluates material behavior as a function of temperature and applied loads, providing data on properties such as coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), elastic modulus, mechanical strength, creep resistance, and dimensional stability. By integrating these datasets, it is possible to establish clear correlations between microstructural features and in-service performance, supporting product development, process optimization, and material qualification for high-demand applications.

Physical characterization

Mechanical Characterization

Thermal Characterization

Physical characterization

Physical characterization allows for the analysis of the physical properties of materials, such as:

Theoretical and real density

Porosity

Loss on ignition

Particle size distribution

Petroceramics is equipped with numerous analytical balances and techniques that enable the analysis of density and porosity using the Archimedes method. Additionally, we have a muffle furnace for loss on ignition analysis and a laser granulometer for analyzing the particle size distribution of materials.

Grain Size Distribution Analyzer

Size range	0.02-2000µm
Accuracy	<1%
Reproducibility	variation <1%

Mechanical Characterization

Petroceramics’ analytical laboratory is equipped with a device for three-point bending resistance testing and a machine for Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA).

Mechanical characterization of materials through three-point bending and DMA allows for the evaluation of elastic and viscoelastic properties.

Three-point bending, according to ASTM D790 and ISO 178 standards, measures the flexural modulus and the breaking strength by applying a load at the center point of a sample supported at both ends.

DMA, on the other hand, applies an oscillating stress to determine the storage modulus (E’), loss modulus (E”), and damping factor (tan δ), providing insights into the material’s behavior as a function of temperature and frequency. These techniques are crucial for designing components with optimal performance across various industrial sectors

Dynamometer

Maximum load	2.5kN
Flexural test
Samples	Section area 40-100mm2
Span	0-1000mm
Working speed	0.0005÷1000 mm/min
Displacement resolution	0.081 micron
Accuracy	Class 1 ISO 7500-1
Reference standard	ISO 10545-4:2004

Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer

Types of load	Compression, Tension, 3-Point Bending and Dual Cantilever
Maximum temperature	500 °C
Force Range	± 500 N
Dynamic Strain	± 1 mm to 1,5 mm
Static Strain	up to 35 mm
Frequency Range	0,01 – 100 Hz
tan δ	0,0001 – 100

Thermal Characterization

Petroceramics’ analytical laboratory is equipped with a device for thermal diffusivity and conductivity analysis (Laser Flash Analysis) and an optical dilatometer.

Thermal conductivity is the ability of a material to transfer heat, while the coefficient of thermal expansion indicates how much a material expands with an increase in temperature.

Both properties are crucial when selecting materials for high-temperature applications or environments with variable thermal conditions, as they directly influence the performance, durability, and safety of the final product.

Thermal conductivity and diffusivity

Heating range	RT-1200°C
Heating rate	0.01-30°C/min
Temperature resolution	0.1°C
Sample dimension	45x5x5mm
Precision (K-1)	0.05·10-6
Reference standard	UNI EN ISO 10545-8

Optical dilatometer

Heating range	RT-1100°C
Heating rate	0.01-50°C/min
Samples	cylinders of ? 12,7 or 25.4mm, thickness 1-10mm
Measurement range	0.01-1000mm2/s (thermal diffusivity)
Measurement range	0.1-2000W/(m·K) (thermal conductivity)
Reference standard	ASTM E-1461