Event Title
Measurement of Thermal Properties of Bismuth Using the Harmon Method
Presentation Type
Poster/Portfolio
Presenter Major(s)
Physics
Mentor Information
Ross Reynolds, Harold Schnyders
Department
Physics
Location
Henry Hall Atrium 14
Start Date
10-4-2013 10:00 AM
End Date
10-4-2013 11:00 AM
Keywords
Physical Science
Abstract
The Harman method (also known as a Z-meter technique) is a well known and established technique for measuring thermoelectric properties of materials, as well as the thermoelectric figure of merit. Involved in these thermoelectric properties is the Seebeck Coefficient, the electrical conductivity, and the thermal conductivity, the latter being a focus of this research along with the thermoelectric figure of merit. The apparatus that was used is loosely based upon a similar apparatus constructed by A.E. Bowley et al., but remains significant due to its ability to easily be reproduced and its inexpensive qualities. The described apparatus uses only direct current to create a temperature gradient across a sample of Bismuth by the means of the Peltier effect. A figure of merit within 7% of expected values was obtained however thermal conductivity determination showed significant error. Details of the experimental apparatus and procedures followed are discussed.
Measurement of Thermal Properties of Bismuth Using the Harmon Method
Henry Hall Atrium 14
The Harman method (also known as a Z-meter technique) is a well known and established technique for measuring thermoelectric properties of materials, as well as the thermoelectric figure of merit. Involved in these thermoelectric properties is the Seebeck Coefficient, the electrical conductivity, and the thermal conductivity, the latter being a focus of this research along with the thermoelectric figure of merit. The apparatus that was used is loosely based upon a similar apparatus constructed by A.E. Bowley et al., but remains significant due to its ability to easily be reproduced and its inexpensive qualities. The described apparatus uses only direct current to create a temperature gradient across a sample of Bismuth by the means of the Peltier effect. A figure of merit within 7% of expected values was obtained however thermal conductivity determination showed significant error. Details of the experimental apparatus and procedures followed are discussed.