This test method is designed to measure and compare thermal properties of materials under controlled conditions and their ability to maintain required thermal conductance levels.

1.1 This test method covers a steady-state technique for the determination of the resistance to thermal transmission (thermal resistance) of materials of thicknesses less than 25 mm. For homogeneous opaque solid specimens of a representative thickness, thermal conductivity can be determined (see Note 1). This test method is useful for specimens having a thermal resistance in the range from 10 to 400 × 10^-4 m²·K·W^-1, which can be obtained from materials of thermal conductivity in the approximate range from 0.1 to 30 W·m^-1·K^-1 over the approximate temperature range from 150 to 600 K. It can be used outside these ranges with reduced accuracy for thicker specimens and for thermal conductivity values up to 60 W·m^-1·K^-1.

Note 1—A body is considered homogeneous when the property to be measured is found to be independent of specimen dimensions.

1.2 This test method is similar in concept to Test Method C518, but is modified to accommodate smaller test specimens, having a higher thermal conductance. In addition, significant attention has been paid to ensure that the thermal resistance of contacting surfaces is minimized and reproducible.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The additional values are mathematical conversions to inch-pound units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.