Thermal Dilatometer
The dilatometer enables highly accurate measurement of the thermally induced linear change in of rock samples over a defined temperature range. This allows the specific coefficient of expansion to be determined and temperature-dependent changes in the material to be analysed in detail. The DIL 502 Expedis® Select thermal dilatometer from Netzsch has a
- Temperature range of approx. 5°C – 500°C
- Resolution across the entire measurement range: 1 nm
- Measuring range: ± 10000 µm
- Sample length: up to 52 mm
- Sample diameter: 8–19 mm
- Force range (applied to the sample): 10 mN to 3 N in 0.2 mN increments
- Temperature accuracy: 1 K
- Temperature precision: 0.1 K
- Temperature resolution: 0.001 K
- Temperature stability (isothermal): ± 0.02 K
How do rocks react to temperature?
Rocks are complex natural materials whose thermal behaviour is influenced by their mineralogical composition, texture, and porosity. Different minerals can expand to varying degrees when heated. This can lead to internal stresses, cracking or structural changes.
With the new measurement system, we can quantitatively record these processes and compare them with one another. In addition to determining thermal expansion, temperature-dependent changes, anisotropies, and anomalies can also be identified.
A wide range of applications
These tests are suitable for, among other things:
- characterising the thermal properties of various rock types,
- determining thermal expansion coefficients,
- investigating the influence of temperature changes on rocks,
- analysing temperature-induced structural changes,
- evaluating the thermal stability of natural stones and mineral materials,
- conducting scientific research on geological and geotechnical issues.
Precise Data for Research and Practice
The acquisition of the thermal dilatometer represents a valuable expansion of our analytical infrastructure. It enables us to investigate in detail the behaviour of rocks under thermal stress and to provide reliable measurement data for research, material characterization, and practice-oriented applications.
With this new measurement technology, we are laying the foundation for an even better understanding of the interactions between temperature, mineralogy, and rock fabric — and opening up new possibilities for the innovative investigation of a wide variety of mineral materials.
News
With the recent acquisition of the state-of-the-art DIL 502 Expedis® Select thermal dilatometer from Netzsch, we are expanding our capabilities for the precise analysis of the thermal properties of rocks and mineral materials. We are now able to determine the coefficient of thermal expansion in accordance with DIN EN 14581:2004, ASTM D4535-13e1. (2013) or using a measurement program specifically tailored to the customer’s needs (for more information, see Thermal Dilatometer).
The project, which was funded by the Free State of Thuringia, was co-financed by the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund (EFRE).
This year’s EAGE GET Conference and Exhibition is taking place in Germany:
Gesteinslabor Dr. Eberhard Jahns will again be taking part as an exhibitor this year. From 2 to 6 November 2026, you can find us at Stand 31 at the HCC in Hannover.
We would be delighted to welcome you to our stand.
Gesteinslabor Dr. Eberhard Jahns is project and research partner within the HENRI (Hydrogen Energy Reservoir) project.
Our main focus is on determining the impact of H2 on the cap rock. Besides other parameters, we measure the capillary threshold pressure using various gases and gas mixtures of hydrogen and methane.
Results were presented at the third HENRI conference in Bratislava in September 2025
We are pleased to be part of the Dutch subsurface research for geothermal heat SCAN.
Further information can be found on the official homepage:
https://scanaardwarmte.nl/english/
