Dear Customers,

We are excited to share some thrilling news from our organization! In addition to innovative advancements in our projects, a new round of our popular ZFW Academy is kicking off. Keep reading to learn more.

New measurement method for in-plane thermal conductivity of thin films and gas diffusion layers delivers precise results

As part of our BMWK-funded project THERMOPEM, a new method has been developed for determining the directional thermal conductivity of thin films. This method is applied, for instance, to gas diffusion layers for fuel cells or thin thermal interface materials.

In the measuring apparatus, samples can be subjected to a defined surface pressure, and thermal conductivity can be measured at different temperatures. Specifically for the analysis of fuel cell components, humidity and, in the future, also the filling gas can be varied. In-plane measurements are performed under steady-state conditions, while through-plane measurements are performed transiently.

In extensive studies, we were able to gradually optimize and validate the new method and the specially developed measurement apparatus. The average deviation compared to reference measurements with laser flash analysis is around 3%. Do you need reliable thermal conductivity data for thin films or gas diffusion layers under defined boundary conditions? We look forward to your inquiries!

---Funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action.---

Thermal conductivity determination of insulation materials up to 850°C using the "guarded heat flow method" (GHFM)

In the automotive sector, special insulation materials are used to slow down the thermal propagation of batteries (chain reaction). During this process, temperatures of over 1000°C are reached. Assessing the suitability of materials and predicting propagation necessarily requires knowledge of the thermal conductivity under these extreme conditions.

For this purpose, the ZFW team has developed a tester that characterizes insulation materials on behalf of customers at up to 850°C on the hot side with a maximum pressure of 2.5 MPa. The measurement principle and the technology used are partly derived from the proven ZFW TIM tester. This allows for precise determination of the necessary measurement parameters such as pressure, temperature, gap, and heat flux. To compensate for an energy balance error due to high temperatures, a "guard ring" is used—hence the "guarded heat flow method." This protects the actual measurement area from heat losses, so no calibrations are necessary.

ZFW Academy Schedule (in GERMAN)

- **Monday, 11.11.2024**

 - Morning: Module 01: Physical Fundamentals

- **Tuesday, 12.11.2024**

 - Morning: Module 02: Cooling Strategies

 - Afternoon: Module 12: Temperature Measurement

- **Wednesday, 13.11.2024**

 - Morning: Module 06: TIM 1

 - Afternoon: Module 07: TIM 2 - Testing Methods

- **Thursday, 14.11.2024**

 - Morning: Module 08: Thermal & Rheological Properties of Filled Polymers

 - Afternoon: Module 09: Thermal Analysis Methods

- **Friday, 15.11.2024**

 - Morning: Module 13: Fundamentals of Rheometry

Take Action!

Take advantage of this opportunity to leverage our expertise and state-of-the-art measurement technology for your projects. Whether it's precise thermal conductivity measurements or comprehensive services—we're here to support you. Get in touch with us for a tailored offer!