Application of thermal analysis techniques to appraisal and quality control in Japan

This review deals with both inorganic- and organic-based electrical/electronic materials, including enameled wires, insulating varnishes, epoxy resins, thermoplastic resins, thermoplastic films, thermosetting resins, ferroelectric polymers, mineral-based transformer oils, zinc oxide varistors, rotating machine insulating systems, photoresists, glass-fiber-reinforced plastics, electronic ceramics, and high-T/sub c/ (critical temperature) oxide superconductors. The thermal analysis techniques considered are thermogravity, evolved gas analysis, differential thermal analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, thermomechanical analysis, thermally stimulated current measurement, and photoinduced calorimetry. An attempt is made to clarify how successfully a particular technique can be used for developing new materials or for evaluating a specific practical application of an electrical or electronic material.<>