Thermal mechanical analysis (TMA) is a highly precise and accurate technique used to characterize the physical changes of materials as a function of temperature and time under a controlled force. The technique involves the measurement of the initial length of the sample (l0), followed by the application of a controlled change in temperature and/or force. The resulting change in sample length (dl) is measured using an electrical transformer called a linear variable displacement transducer (LVDT). TMA measures material deformation changes under controlled conditions of force, atmosphere, time, and temperature, and is a powerful tool for the study of the mechanical and thermal properties of a wide range of materials.