THERMAL-CONDUCTIVITY OF POLYMER MELTS

The Du Pont 910 DSC cell and base have been modified for the measurement of steady-state heat flux and temperature gradients through molten polymeric specimens. This is a comparative method for thermal conductivity determination. The calculation for polymer melts is based on the measured thermal quantities and a calibration factor obtained from reference materials. The measurements at several steady-state temperatures can be carried out consecutively. Furthermore, the thermal diffusivity k can be obtained from the relationshipκ = λ/ρCp, where λ is the thermal conductivity, ρ{variant} is density, and Cp is specific heat. Construction of sample holders and modifications of the DSC cell and base are described. © 1990.