Archive | 2021
Techniques for measuring ultra-high temperature thermophysical properties of silicon-based alloys
Abstract
Abstract Introduction of silicon (or silicon-based alloys) as novel phase change materials (PCMs) into latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES) systems requires careful predetermination of their thermophysical properties in both solid and liquid states. The most important requirements for PCM candidates include high volumetric latent heat, high thermal conductivity, and low thermal expansion upon solid↔liquid transitions. However, due to a high melting point of silicon (Tm>1400°C) and its extremely high reactivity at ultra-high temperature, special measurement methods, laboratory equipment, and procedures are needed to provide reliable data on these most crucial thermophysical properties. In this chapter, we look through literature data on characterization of high-temperature properties of solid/liquid state materials with a strong focus on methods and devices that have been developed and adopted for examining Si and Si-based melts.