Custom Thermal Conductivity Testing in Polymers to Define New Requirements

What was the challenge or problem to solve?

A client from the chemical industry sector needed an analysis of the thermal conductivity of some polymers to select the optimal one for a specific application, as well as to define new requirements for their suppliers. This project required not only deep technical knowledge but also an adaptation to limitations in material availability.

The main challenge lay in establishing the material requirements for the final application and in the state of the polymer samples provided by the client. These samples were presented in a format not suitable for the tests that were planned after the literature search.

Custom Thermal Conductivity Testing in Polymers to Define New Requirements
Since it was not possible to perform a standard test, the materials team at INFINITIA carried out an adaptation and preconditioning of the samples, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the test results. 
Custom Thermal Conductivity Testing in Polymers to Define New Requirements
How was it addressed or what was the solution?

The process began with an exhaustive literature search, aimed at identifying the critical properties of the polymer for its application in the defined use case. This step was crucial to ensure that our approach and techniques were aligned with the specific needs of the client.

 

Subsequently, we selected and optimized the most suitable technique to measure thermal conductivity, as it turned out to be a key parameter for this application. This phase was vital to ensure that the selected methods were the most effective for the available samples.

The preparation of the samples was a challenge in itself, as it required a transformation of them to adapt to the tests.

Finally, the measurement of thermal conductivity provided key information for selecting the most suitable material. This result not only met the client’s expectations but also marked a milestone in our approach to customized solutions.