Localized thermal analysis using a miniaturized resistive probe

We describe a novel thermal characterization technique based on a differential arrangement, which achieves spatially localized calorimetric analysis. It involves the use of an active probe which acts both as a highly localized heat source and a thermometer. This ability opens the way for the implementation of scanning calorimetric microscopy where image contrast will be created from thermal analysis data. For a number of polymers we have recorded events such as glass transitions, meltings, recrystallizations and thermal decomposition within volumes of material estimated at a few mu m(3). The data obtained are compared with those obtained from conventional calorimetry and the events registered in both cases are found to match. For a full quantitative analysis of the results obtained, mathematical modelling of the operation of the technique, taking account of physical and other changes in materials, is required. (C) 1996 American Institute of Physics.