PHOTOTHERMAL APPLICATIONS TO THE THERMAL-ANALYSIS OF SOLIDS

Major application of optically-induced thermal waves to the thermal and thermodynamic analysis of solids are reviewed. The spectrum of available techniques, from the conventional photoacoustic detection to novel photothermal laser probing and frequency multiplexing is discussed, and their utilization for the measurement of thermophysical thermal transport-related parameters of solids is presented. These include the thermal diffusivity, effusivity, conductivity and specific heat. The ability of photothermal methods to perform thermal analysis on large classes of solids, including conducting and insulating bulk materials, crystals, layered porous and coated structures, thin films and inhomogeneous thermal profiles is highlighted. Finally, special capabilities of photothermal analysis, such as the monitoring of surface thermodynamic phenomena and phase transition studies, including high-T(c) superconductors, are described in order to give a complete overview of the rich potential of photothermal-based methodologies.