Estimate Thermal Conductivity

For unknown materials, estimate k-value based on other known properties

Calculation Results

Enter the required properties and click "Calculate k-value" to see results

Formula Used

Thermal conductivity (k) can be estimated using:

k = α × ρ × Cp

Where:

  • k = Thermal conductivity (W/m·K)
  • α = Thermal diffusivity (m²/s)
  • ρ = Density (kg/m³)
  • Cp = Specific heat capacity (J/kg·K)

Compare Materials

Select materials from the Material Lookup tab to compare their thermal properties

No materials selected for comparison

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Interactive Guide

Learn about thermal conductivity and how to use this tool effectively

Thermal conductivity (often denoted as k, λ, or κ) is the property of a material to conduct heat. It is evaluated primarily in terms of Fourier's Law for heat conduction.

Heat transfer occurs at a higher rate across materials of high thermal conductivity than across materials of low thermal conductivity. Correspondingly, materials of high thermal conductivity are widely used in heat sink applications, and materials of low thermal conductivity are used as thermal insulation.

The thermal conductivity of a material may depend on temperature. The reciprocal of thermal conductivity is called thermal resistivity.

Material Lookup

Use the search and filters in the sidebar to find materials. Click on any material to view its detailed properties.

Compare Materials

Select multiple materials using the checkboxes, then click "Compare Selected" to view them side by side.

Custom Estimation

If you know other thermal properties of a material (density, specific heat, thermal diffusivity), you can estimate its thermal conductivity.

Thermal conductivity values are typically in the range of:

  • Metals: 10-400 W/m·K (good conductors)
  • Ceramics: 1-30 W/m·K
  • Polymers: 0.1-0.5 W/m·K
  • Insulators: 0.01-0.1 W/m·K
  • Gases: 0.01-0.1 W/m·K

Remember that thermal conductivity often varies with temperature. This tool provides temperature-dependent values where available.

Heat Sinks

Materials with high thermal conductivity (like copper and aluminum) are used to dissipate heat from electronic components.

Building Insulation

Materials with low thermal conductivity (like fiberglass and foam) are used to reduce heat transfer in buildings.

Thermal Fluids

Liquids with specific thermal properties are used in heat transfer applications like cooling systems.