Thermal analysis and calorimetry: two tightly linked groups of methods, nonetheless a consolidated field of science

Abstract Thermal analysis and calorimetry is usually defined in the scientific literature in terms of methods, instruments, and techniques. This is probably due to historical reasons since the evolution of thermal analysis and calorimetry has been closely related to the development and proposals of new equipment, methods and methodologies. Nevertheless, thermal analysis and calorimetry goes far beyond methods and techniques, and it is a consolidated scientific field focused generally on studying the behavior of samples over time as a function of temperature and under controlled atmosphere. Actually, as the behavior of samples can be monitored by analyzing any physical or chemical property using a multitude of experimental setups, further advancements and the emergent analytical procedures produce a continuous development of the field; thus, novel features and insights for better investigating various properties were possible to be brought in the spotlight, for example by sample-controlled thermal analysis (SCTA). Thermal analysis and calorimetry is clearly related with processes that are determined not only by the properties of the sample, but also by the experimental conditions (both operational and environmental conditions, such as the temperature profile, and the surrounding environment), providing in situ information. In any case, the outcome of a thermal analysis or calorimetry experiment requires a deep knowledge of the method, the sample and conditions. In this context, it is impetuously required to redefine thermal analysis and calorimetry and its constituting terms in a scientifically-sound manner, by employing this time more modern approaches that reflect the current state of the field.