Reference Materials and Transfer Standards for Use in Measurements on Low Thermal Conductivity Materials and Systems

Abstract

Reference materials and transfer standards are essential both to validate thermal conductivity techniques and apparatus based on primary methods and for use in the calibration of equipment based on secondary methods. A variety of materials and specimens are required to satisfy the overall needs which cover wide ranges of thermal conductivity and temperature. The current available materials and standards for use as specimens of low thermal conductivity (<5W/m.K) are reviewed and examples provided to illustrate their present usefulness and the need for others to be made available. Related on-going and planned work, both nationally and internationally, is described and discussed. Areas where significant gaps exist and where such materials and specimens are needed are identified. Recommendations are made concerning candidate materials for use in specific areas. There is a continuing unfilled need for more international cooperative work to develop several standards for different applications.