At a glance
Analytical methods reveal different aspects of a composite. They are most useful when combined with a clear question and mechanical or durability measurements.
Match the instrument to the question #
Luffa/epoxy and epoxy-coated WPC investigations used combinations of these tools to study treatment or interface effects. Their use illustrates the value of matching structural observations to the specific material system. [R12,R13]
See the comparison table below for match the instrument to the question.
Interpret thermal data cautiously #
The temperature at the maximum mass-loss rate in TGA is not the permissible continuous service temperature. Heat-deflection temperature, thermal conductivity and dimensional change are separate characteristics requiring appropriate measurement. Likewise, lignin's glass transition is not one universal number that can be copied into every WPC datasheet.
Research on orange-wood-fibre/PP composites investigated thermal behaviour and crystallinity. It demonstrates the need to consider the reinforcement and polymer together when interpreting a thermal result.
Build a persuasive failure investigation #
Begin with the observed problem: cracking, excessive movement, delamination or inconsistent appearance. Compare an affected sample with a retained control and record sampling locations. Use analysis to test a hypothesis, then connect the findings to process records and performance testing.
A smooth-looking fracture surface is not conclusive proof of good adhesion, and a new FTIR peak does not quantify load transfer. The strongest explanation brings together observations that independently support the same conclusion.
Evidence and source scope #
[1] Experimental study; full text consulted.
[2] Experimental study; publisher abstract and accessible excerpts.
[3] Experimental study.
These methods support interpretation; none alone certifies a finished board.
| Method | Typical question |
|---|---|
| SEM | What do the fracture surface, pores or exposed fibres look like? |
| FTIR | Which chemical-group signatures or changes are detectable? |
| DSC | What thermal transitions or crystallization events occur? |
| TGA | How does sample mass change during a defined heating programme? |
Sources & further reading
- Fabrication, characterization, and evaluation of Luffa cylindrica fiber reinforced epoxy composites; Saw et al. (2013) ↗bioresources.cnr.ncsu.edu · web · 2026-10-15
- Improving interfacial bonding strength between epoxy and PE-based wood plastic composites by micro-riveting; Chen et al. (2024) ↗www.sciencedirect.com · web · 2026-10-15
- Orange wood fiber reinforced polypropylene composites: Thermal properties ↗bioresources.cnr.ncsu.edu · web · 2026-10-15
Cite this page
J. A. Gill. “SEM, FTIR, DSC and TGA: what WPC analysis can reveal” Version 1. Updated 2026-10-17. https://woodplasticcomposite.net/guides/wpc-analysis-sem-ftir-dsc-tga/
Author profile
Author: J. A. Gill
WPC and natural-fibre composite specialist · Innovator, inventor, product designer and entrepreneur
Converted from the referenced English foundations collection. General technical information and editorial specification guidance; not product certification.
General material information is not product certification or project-specific engineering advice.
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