In-situ characterization of thermal interface materials

In this paper the aspects of thermal interface material characterization are discussed from a practical point of view. A novel method based on existing measurement standards is introduced for a quick and repeatable thermal conductivity measurement of nanoparticle-based thermal greases. The effect of the surface roughness of the DUT fixture is evaluated, as well as a method is introduced for the long term reliability testing of these nanocomposites.