Thin-Film Gauges Using Carbon Nanotubes as Composite Layers

Abstract

Measurement of transient temperature and heat flux has attained enormous importance with the recent advancement in technology. Certain situations demand transient measurements to be performed for extremely short durations (approximately few seconds) which in turn call for sensors capable of responding within microseconds or even less. Thin-film gauges (TFGs), a particular class of resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), are such kind of sensors which are suitable for above requirements due to their quick and precise measurements in transient environments. The present work aims at designing an in-house fabrication and calibration of fast response TFG prepared by depositing nanocarbon layer on silver films as a laminated composite topping to enhance thermal and electrical properties. A significant improvement in the thermal and electrical conductivity of the composite sensor is observed when compared to gauges made from pure metals.