Raman Spectroscopy–Evolved Gas Analysis–Mass Spectrometry Provides Insight into Thermoset Thermal Degradation
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: Raman spectroscopy–evolved gas analysis–mass spectrometry (RS-EGA-MS) was developed to investigate the thermal degradation of a bisphenol A–based thermoset. A new interface was developed that couples a Stokes/anti-Stokes Raman probe to a Frontier microfurnace used for EGA-MS. This new advancement enables collection of Raman spectra from a sample undergoing thermal degradation while simultaneously monitoring evolved gases from degradation. Changes in the Raman spectra were evident at the early stages of thermal degradation and corresponded to loss of bisphenol A monomer units. Later stages of thermal degradation resulted in intense fluorescence that overwhelmed the detector; anti-Stokes RS was used to interrogate these higher-temperature regions. Multiple char-forming regions which corresponded to the formation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were identified at these higher temperatures. The formation of naphthalene and fluoranthene were identified as important PAH products in the overall char formation of the bisphenol A based thermoset. This work demonstrates the successful development of RS-EGA-MS and provides new insight into high-temperature
Source: ChemRxiv
Authors: Derek B. Dwyer, Avery Wood, Andrew Miskowiec
Language: English
Topic: Thermal and Kinetic Analysis
Subfield: Materials Chemistry
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7223338768