STA L81: Combination of thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry
The LINSEIS STA L81 is a high-end system for simultaneous high-performance thermal analysis (TG-DSC) with dynamic differential scanning calorimetry functions. This versatile device is ideal for investigating the thermal stability, of phase transitions, oxidation/reduction reactions and decomposition processes in a variety of materials and applications. With interchangeable furnaces in the temperature range from -150 °C to 2400 °C and a sample load capacity of up to 35 g, the STA L81 offers outstanding flexibility, precision and reliability.
Unique Features
Electronics upgrade
The new measuring electronics offer significant performance improvements and are based on the “Linseis Digital Balance” architecture.
The advantages of this new digital scale architecture include:
Minimization of drift
Ensures consistently high precision over long periods of time.Improved resolution
Unique resolution in the sub-microgram range.Highest accuracy
Increases the reliability of your measurement results.Reproducibility
Ensures consistent results with repeated measurements.
New hardware features
Tri-Couple DTA measuring system
DTA measuring system with three thermocouples for detecting the smallest endothermic and exothermic effects – even with inhomogeneous samples.Jacketed DTA measuring system for corrosive samples
Specially developed for demanding sample environments, the jacketed DTA system offers additional protection against corrosive gases and aggressive decomposition products. It ensures the long-term durability of the sensor system and precise heat flow measurements – even with highly reactive or contaminating substances.Patented “Forced Flow” method
Enables a forced gas flow through your TG or TG-DTA measurement. Up to 100 % of the reaction gas is selectively supplied to the sample.
This innovative method allows scalable measurements for the first time and therefore precise analysis under realistic conditions.
Design improvements
The new device design is characterized by an elegant aluminium housing that is both robust and visually appealing. An LED status bar provides a user-friendly visualization of important information. A touch panel enables intuitive operation and ensures a modern user experience that combines convenience and functionality. The focus of the new design is on ergonomic handling.
Linseis Lab Link
With Linseis Lab Link, we offer an integrated solution for eliminating uncertainties in measurement results. With direct access to our application experts via the software, you receive advice on the correct measurement procedure and how to evaluate the results. This direct communication ensures optimal results and maximizes the efficiency of your measurements for accurate analysis and research and a smooth process flow.
Software improvements
Lex Bus Plug & Play
Our latest hardware interface Lex Bus revolutionizes data communication within our systems.
Lex Bus enables the seamless and efficient integration of new hardware and software tools.Improved oven control
Our new and further optimized oven control system allows even more precise temperature control.
The result: more precise temperature control – exactly according to your wishes and requirements – and therefore better measurement results.New software with user interface
Our communication is now even more focused on your needs:
You are always informed about the current status and receive targeted support whenever it is needed.Process reliability
Our software has been optimized for maximum process security: Your data is protected at all times and can be processed in a fail-safe manner.Error messages and bug fixes
The system automatically detects errors and problems, documents them immediately and fixes them as quickly as possible – for minimal downtime.Automatic updates and new functions
Regular automatic software updates not only improve security, but also continuously bring new functions.Permanent system monitoring
The software permanently monitors all system parameters – for optimum performance at all times.Preventive maintenance and problem detection
Our preventive maintenance approach detects problems and wear at an early stage, before damage occurs – to keep your appliance in top form for the long term.
Automatic evacuation
The appliances have an integrated automatic emptying function that ensures efficient processes and smooth operation.
Evolved Gas Analysis & Gas Safety System
An optional gas analysis with MS, FTIR or GCMS provides valuable additional information. The system supports stand-alone or integrated MFCs for precise gas dosing and can be customized with options such as a heated inlet. A flexible gas safety system enables the safe use of gases such as hydrogen or carbon dioxide.
Highlights
High-resolution DTA
(3 thermocouples)
Accessories starter kit
Sample robot
Wide temperature range
Shielded DTA
for corrosive
applications
Vacuum and controlled atmosphere
Automatic evacuation
and calibration
Key Features
Wide temperature range
-150 °C to 2400 °C – LINSEIS STA devices can be equipped with up to two furnaces simultaneously. A wide selection of different furnace types enables measurements in the largest temperature range available on the market.
Sample robot
Our STA L81 can be equipped with a proven sample robot that enables unattended sample measurements – for maximum sample throughput.
Vacuum and controlled atmosphere
- Supports high vacuum as well as inert, reducing, oxidizing or humidified atmospheres
- Optionally, pressurization with up to 5 bar overpressure is possible
- The analysis of certain corrosive conditions can be realized with appropriate precautions
- A heated capillary can be optionally integrated for residual gas analysis
Integrated LINSEIS platform
The integrated LINSEIS software offers a comprehensive solution that combines hardware and software for maximum process reliability and precision. The standardized platform enables seamless integration of components and devices from external partners – for a particularly robust and reliable overall system.
Questions? Just give us a call!
+1 (609) 223 2070
+49 (0) 9287/880 0
Thursday from 8 am to 4 pm
and Friday from 8 am to 12 pm.
We are here for you!
Specifications
12 different ovens available
Temperature range: -150°C to 2400°C
22 different sensors available
Discover our high-performance STA – developed for maximum flexibility and precision:
Heating rates: 0.01 to 100 K/min (on request also from 0.001 K/min)
Temperature resolution: 0,001 K
Atmospheres: Vacuum up to 10-⁵ mbar (depending on the pump), pressure up to 5 bar (optional)
Balance resolution: 0.01 / 0.02 / 0.1 μg
Sensor options: TG, TG-DTA, TG-DSC with E- / K- / S- / B- / C-sensors (C = DTA only)
High temperature specialist
The STA L81 tungsten furnace is the reliable solution for applications in the ultra-high temperature range up to 2400 °C. In contrast to graphite, which can react with many samples at high temperatures, tungsten offers high chemical stability even under demanding conditions.
Ideal for sensitive materials, this oven ensures precise measurement results without unwanted interactions. Designed for maximum robustness and performance, it is the first choice when the highest temperatures and sample compatibility are required.
Recommended Equipment
EGA - Evolved Gas Analysis
Gas Dosing & Gas Safety
Water Vapor & Relative Humidity
Method
Simultaneous Thermal Analysis
The Simultaneous Thermal Analysis (STA) combines the thermogravimetric analysis (TG) and the Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) in a single measurement. Changes in mass and thermal effects are recorded in parallel under identical conditions on the same sample.
This simultaneous approach prevents deviations that can arise due to differences in sample geometry, heating rate or atmosphere. As both signals are recorded simultaneously, the results are directly comparable and enable a precise interpretation of complex thermal processes.
STA allows a distinction to be made between thermal processes with and without mass change:
DSC detects for example melting, crystallizations or phase transitions while TG data on decomposition, oxidation or evaporation. This dual detection provides detailed insight into multi-step or overlapping reactions.
The correlation of TG and DSC signals also enables enthalpy corrections can be made on the basis of mass loss – for improved quantitative accuracy.
STA is particularly valuable for analyzing modern materials, plastics, pharmaceuticals and inorganic substances – and enables efficient, reproducible thermal analysis in just one experiment.
Functional principle of the STA L81
The STA L81 performs simultaneous thermal analysis by combining thermogravimetric and calorimetric measurements in a single process. The sample is placed in a crucible and subjected to a precisely controlled heating or cooling program.
During the entire temperature cycle, the STA L81 continuously records two key measured variables:
Mass change – weight loss or gain due to decomposition, oxidation or the release of volatile components are measured with high sensitivity.
Heat flow – Thermal events such as melting, crystallization or phase transitions are detected via changes in heat absorption or release.
By simultaneously recording both signals on the same sample under identical conditions, the STA L81 enables a detailed analysis of the thermal behavior and material composition. This method ensures high data quality and a direct correlation between thermal effects and mass changes.
Measured variables with Differential Scanning Calorimetry
Possibilities of thermal analysis using DSC:
Measured variables with Thermogravimetry
Possibilities of thermal analysis using thermogravimetry (TG):
A head start with the STA L81 - flexible options for every need
Questions? Just give us a call!
+49 (0) 9287/880 0
Thursday from 8 am to 4 pm
and Friday from 8 am to 12 pm.
We are here for you!
STA L81 explained - function, use and capabilities
Beam Balance
Forced Flow
Forced flow – advantages in the investigation of gas-solid reactions
(patent application pending)
The forced flow principle offers numerous advantages for the analysis of reactions between gas and solid phases:
Controlled conditions
Precise control of the reaction environment for reproducible measurement results.Faster reaction times
Acceleration of slow reactions through continuous gas flow.Better mixing
Even distribution of the reactants for improved reaction kinetics.Continuous analysis
Real-time monitoring and control of the response possible.Scalability
Easily adaptable to different volumes and flow rates – ideal for optimizing production processes.
The forced flow principle is available for both thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and the differential thermoanalytical method (DTA). This considerably expands the application range of this technology and enables more precise analyses as well as more advanced examination methods in thermal analysis.
Oxidation rates of copper with different gas supplies
The oxidation of copper produces copper oxide, whereby the reaction rate is highly dependent on the gas supply. The forced flow principle ensures that the oxidizing agent (O₂) is distributed quickly and evenly over the entire sample material right from the start. This allows the reaction to take place much faster than with conventional methods, where the gas only reaches the sample gradually.
The reaction for the formation of copper oxide is:
2Cu + O₂ → 2 CuO
Due to the forced gas flow, the oxygen reacts efficiently with the copper – for accelerated reactions and more precise analyses under realistic conditions.
Which sensors are available?
Which oven programs are available?
TEMPERATURE | TYPE | ELEMENT | ATMOSPHERE | TC-TYPE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| -70°C – 400°C | L81/24/RCF | Hanging only, Intracooler / Kanthal | inert, oxide, red, vac. | K |
| -150°C – 500°C | L81/24/500 | Kanthal | inert, oxide, red, vac. | K |
| -150°C – 700°C | L81/24/700 | Kanthal | inert, oxide, red, vac. | K |
| -150°C – 1000°C | L81/24/1000 | Kanthal | inert, oxide, red, vac. | K |
| RT – 1000°C | L81/20AC | SiC | inert, oxide, red, vac. | K |
| RT – 1600°C | L81/20AC | SiC | inert, oxide, red, vac. | S |
| RT – 1750°C | L81/250 | MoSi2 | inert, oxide, red, vac. | B |
| RT – 2000°C | L81/20/G/2000 | graphite | inert, red, vac. | C |
| RT – 2400°C | L81/20/G/2400 | graphite | inert, red, vac. | Pyrometer |
| RT – 2800°C | L81/20/G/2800 | graphite | inert, red, vac. | Pyrometer |
| RT – 2400°C | L81/20/T | Tungsten | inert, red | C |
| RT – 1000°C | L81/200 | Glow igniter | inert, oxide, red, vac. | S/K |
How much does an STA L81 cost?
The price of an STA L81 system depends on the selected configuration and additional options, such as the temperature range, furnace type, cooling system, automation features, or specialized measurement modes. Since each system can be tailored to your specific application requirements, the cost can vary significantly.
For an exact quotation, please use our contact form to send us your requirements – we will be happy to prepare a customized offer for you.
What is the delivery time for an STA L81?
The delivery time for an STA L81 largely depends on the chosen options and configuration. Additional features such as special furnaces, extended temperature ranges, automation, or custom adaptations may increase production and preparation time and therefore extend the delivery period.
Please contact us via our contact form to receive an accurate delivery time estimate based on your individual requirements.
For which applications are simultaneous TG-DSC/DTA measurements advantageous compared to separate TGA and DSC instruments?
Simultaneous TG-DSC/DTA measurement with the STA L81 allows changes in mass and thermal effects to be recorded under exactly the same conditions on the same sample. This avoids deviations that can occur in separate measurements due to differences in sample geometry, heating rate, or atmosphere.
It is particularly advantageous for complex, multi-step reactions or overlapping processes – for example, when a mass loss (TG) and a thermal event (DSC/DTA) occur at the same time. The direct correlation of both signals enables more precise interpretation, such as distinguishing whether a thermal effect is accompanied by a mass change or not.
This approach also saves time by requiring only a single measurement and reduces sample consumption, which is especially valuable for rare or expensive materials.
Can STA systems perform pressure-dependent measurements?
Yes, with the appropriate configuration, the STA L81 can also perform pressure-dependent measurements. Special high-pressure furnaces and gas control systems are available, allowing operation under elevated pressure. This is particularly useful for simulating reactions under realistic process conditions, for example in materials research, catalyst development, or safety testing.
Please contact us to discuss the suitable equipment and pressure ranges for your application.
Are measurements under hydrogen and water vapor atmospheres possible with STA systems?
Yes, the STA L81 can – with the corresponding equipment – be operated under both hydrogen and water vapor atmospheres. For hydrogen measurements, special safety-certified gas systems and high-temperature furnaces are available to ensure safe and controlled operation. Water vapor atmospheres can be generated using dedicated humidification systems and heated gas lines to prevent condensation and ensure stable measurement conditions.
These capabilities are particularly valuable for applications in materials development, corrosion studies, catalysis, and energy technology.
Can STA systems be coupled with gas analyzers, and is in-situ gas analysis possible?
Yes, the STA L81 can be coupled with various gas analyzers such as FTIR, MS, or GC systems. This allows in-situ analysis of gases released during the measurement. The coupling is carried out via heated transfer lines, ensuring condensation-free gas transport and accurate correlation of thermal events with the gas composition.
This combination offers a significant advantage as it provides information not only on the thermal and mass-related changes of the sample but also on the nature of the gases formed or released – ideal for material characterization, decomposition studies, and reaction mechanism analysis.
Software
Making values visible and comparable
All LINSEIS thermoanalytical devices are software-controlled. The individual software modules run exclusively under Microsoft® Windows® operating systems. The complete software consists of 3 modules: temperature control, data acquisition and data evaluation. The Windows® software contains all the essential functions for preparing, carrying out and evaluating a thermoanalytical measurement. Thanks to our specialists and application experts, LINSEIS was able to develop a comprehensive, easy-to-understand and user-friendly software.
Features software
- Program suitable for text editing
- Data backup in the event of a power failure
- Thermocouple breakage protection
- Repeat measurements with minimal
parameter input - Evaluation of the current measurement
- Curve comparison up to 50 curves
- Saving and exporting evaluations
- Export and import of ASCII data
- Data export to MS Excel
- Multi-method analysis (DSC, TGA, TMA, DIL, etc.)
- Zoom function
- 1 and 2 Derivation
- Curve arithmetic
- Statistical evaluation package
- Automatic calibration
- Optional kinetics and service life prediction
- Software packages
TG features:
- Mass change in % and mg
- Rate-controlled mass loss (RCML)
- Evaluation of the mass loss
- Residual mass evaluation
- “Notes on dynamic TGA measurement” (optional, chargeable service)
HDSC features:
- Glass transition temperature
- Complex peak evaluation
- Multi-point calibration for sample temperature
- Multi-point calibration for the enthalpy change
- Cp calibration for the heat flow
- Signal-controlled measuring methods
LINSEIS Thermal Library
The LINSEIS Thermal Library software package is an option for the well-known, user-friendly LINSEIS Platinum evaluation software, which is integrated in almost all our devices. The Thermal Library allows you to compare the complete curves with a database containing thousands of references and standard materials in just 1-2 seconds.
Multi-instrument
All LINSEIS instruments DSC, DIL, STA, HFM, LFA, etc. can be controlled via a software template.
Multilingual
Our software is available in many different user-interchangeable languages, such as: English, Spanish, French, German, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, etc.
Report generator
Convenient template selection for creating individual measurement reports.
Multi-user
The administrator can set up different user levels with different rights to operate the device. An optional log file is also available.
Kinetic software
Kinetic analysis of DSC, DTA, TGA, EGA (TG-MS, TG-FTIR) data to investigate the thermal behavior of raw materials and products.
Database
The state-of-the-art database enables simple data management with up to 1000 data records.
Application
Automotive and aerospace industry
Thermophysical measurement methods are indispensable tools in research and development for the transportation and aerospace industries – including automotive engineering, aviation, satellite technology and manned space missions. They support key tasks such as component testing, quality assurance, process optimization and fault analysis.
During operation, vehicles are exposed to a wide range of environmental conditions that can affect both appearance and performance in the long term. The climatic simulations and thermal analyses provided by our devices are crucial to understanding these effects and improving product life.
This includes the precise determination of thermal diffusivity in materials such as rubber – a decisive factor for evaluating the thermal behavior and ageing resistance of technical components.
Application example: Decomposition of CaC₂O₄ – H₂O
The gases released during the decomposition of calcium oxalate were fed to the mass spectrometer via a heated capillary. The ion currents for the mass numbers 18 (water), 28 (carbon monoxide) and 44 (carbon dioxide) were shown in the diagram.
Building materials
Simultaneous Thermal Analysis (STA) offers an effective solution for characterizing building materials such as concrete, cement, mortar, gypsum and other mineral materials. It enables the detailed investigation of glass transitions in modified glass, binder degradation, decomposition behavior, cement hydration processes and material expansion or shrinkage.
In contrast to separate measurements with individual devices, STA allows the simultaneous recording of mass change and heat flow in a single experiment. This allows thermogravimetric (TGA) and calorimetric (DSC) data to be correlated exactly – under identical test conditions.
By recording thermal and mass-related processes in parallel in real time and under the same atmosphere and heating rate, STA provides reliable, time-saving and comprehensive insights into the thermal behavior of complex building materials.
Application example: Cement
The main components of cement are tricalcium silicate, dicalcium silicate and tricalcium aluminate. After mixing with water, hydrates are slowly formed. First the absorbed water evaporates.
At around 570 °C, the hydrates of the calcium silicates decompose. This is followed by the hydroxides of calcium, magnesium and aluminum. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is then released from calcium carbonate.
Metals and alloys
Metals used in industrial applications must fulfill specific properties resulting from their intended function. Characteristics such as hardness, mechanical strength, thermal expansion, thermal conductivity and resistance to oxidation and corrosion must be tailored to the conditions of use in order to ensure a long service life and reliability.
As pure metals often do not meet these requirements, they are usually alloyed with other elements – metals, semi-metals or non-metals. These combinations, known as alloys, have improved material properties and enable a wide range of technical applications.
Thermophysical measurement methods enable the analysis of important material behaviour such as phase transitions, crystallization temperatures, changes of state and the thermal stability of raw materials used in sheet metal, substrates or other metallurgical products. Other measurable parameters are the specific heat capacity, the linear thermal expansion and the melting point.
Application example: STA L81 – Determination of the melting behavior of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) in high-temperature applications
Aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) is characterized by its high melting temperature of 2070 °C and is therefore an ideal material for high-temperature applications up to 2000 °C.
Among other things, it is used in thermal analysis as a reference material for melting behavior – as in the following measurement with an STA L81 (TG in combination with simultaneous DSC or DTA).
Application example: STA L81 – Melt analysis of palladium
Palladium, a rare, silvery-white shiny metal, is examined in thermal analysis due to its high melting point and its special thermophysical properties.
Palladium was analyzed in the laboratory using the STA L81. The measurement was carried out at a heating rate of 5 K/min in a nitrogen atmosphere, using 5.6 mg of palladium wire. The resulting DTA curve shows a clearly pronounced endothermic peak, which represents the melting process of palladium – with an onset at 1554.3 °C and an offset at 1559.3 °C. The area under the peak is -157.3 mJ/mg and corresponds to the enthalpy of fusion.
Such precise measurements of melting behavior and melt enthalpy are essential for the calibration of DSC devices and ensure high accuracy in thermal analysis for a wide range of research and industrial applications.
Well informed
