The thermal conductivity of a material is a measure of its ability to conduct heat.
Heat transfer occurs at a lower rate in materials of low thermal conductivity than in
materials of high thermal conductivity. Having knowledge on a material’s ability to
store and transfer heat through measurements of thermal diffusivity, thermal conductivity,
and specific heat capacity is critical for any process or material which experiences a
large or fast temperature gradient. Accurate values of these properties are essential for
modelling and managing heat, whether the component of interest is called on to insulate,
conduct, or simply withstand temperature changes. Heat transfer property measurements also
reflect important information about material composition, purities and structure, as well
as secondary performance characteristics such as tolerance to thermal shock.
