This study shows the use of the GERSTEL MPS 2/TDU/CIS with pyrolysis module for generating simulated thermal gravimetric-mass spectrometry data (TGA-MS) of polymer samples. This mode of operation is also referred to as evolved gas analysis (EGA). For EGA analysis, a short piece of uncoated capillary is attached from the GC inlet to the mass spectrometer. A relatively slow temperature ramp is run similar to that used for actual TGA analysis.

The total ion chromatogram can be plotted as a function of temperature to produce simulated TGA-MS data. The mass spectral data is used to identify degradation products at various temperatures.

 Several types of polymers ar e examined in this study. Simulated TGA-MS data is compared with actual TGA data.