Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

Thermal conductivity is a key thermal transport property of materials. Knowledge of a material's thermal conductivity is crucial for a wide range of applications, including electronic assemblies, polymer injection molding, automotive components, home insulation using various building materials, etc. The equipment requested will support key components of the Applicant and Co-applicants' research programs.The proposed thermal conductivity measurement system, based on the transient plane source, is a valuable tool for characterizing a wide range of materials including solids, liquids, powders and pastes. The equipment will be used to measure the thermal conductivity of automotive cylinder heads, of soils for high-temperature ground thermal energy storages, of materials for building energy efficiency, of concrete structures and sustainable materials. Increased thermal conductivity will enable operation of automobile engines at higher temperature and efficiency, resulting in reduced fuel consumption, reduced emission and hence better environment. The equipment will be in high demand amongst multiple researchers within the university. It will be used extensively by graduate and undergraduate students who will have an excellent opportunity to do hands-on experiments with state-of-the-art equipment and acquire knowledge in experimental design and data analysis.