Differential scanning calorimetry is used to determine the heat or enthalpy of transition. For this information to be meaningful in an absolute sense, heat flow calibration of the apparatus or comparison of the resulting data to that of a known standard is required.

This practice is useful in calibrating the heat flow axis of differential scanning calorimeters or quantitative differential thermal analyzers for subsequent use in the measurement of transition energies and specific heat capacities of unknowns.

1.1 This practice covers the heat flow calibration of differential scanning calorimeters over the temperature range from − 130 °C to + 800 °C.

1.2 Values given in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

1.3 Computer or electronic based instruments, techniques or data manipulation equivalent to this practice may also be used.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of whoever uses this standard to consult and establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. See also Section 7.