The use of Fourier transform infrared evolved-gas analysis (FT-IR/EGA) to determine activation energies from the heating rate dependency of the maximum evolution of effluent is demonstrated. The mathematical considerations are similar to those normally applied to differential thermal analysis. The determination of the activation energy is substantiated with dehydration of calcium oxalate monohydrate during pyrolysis; the results are compared with thermogravimetry analysis results, and indicate that the activation energy in the dehydration step in the pyrolysis of calcium oxalate monohydrate is temperature dependent.
