Electrically conductive and Thermally insulating materal

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In summary, the conversation discusses the need for materials that are both electrically conductive and thermally insulating. It is suggested that this requirement can be met by using a mechanical assembly with thin wires passing through holes in a good thermal insulator. The desired material would have an electrical conductivity of >10^6 S/m and a thermal conductivity of <0.2 W/mK. Other suggestions include using high resistance feed wires or thermal buffering with blocks or rings of copper.
  • #1
Sandip
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Are there any materials that are electrically conductive but are thermally insulating?
 
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  • #2
How insulating/non-conductive?
 
  • #3
- and what do you want it for ?

This type of requirement can often be met using a mechanical assembly . Many interpretations but conceptually thin wires for the electricity going through holes in sheets of good thermal insulator .
 
  • #4
I want to heat a thin electrically conductive substrate to a high temperature by passing current through it. Unfortunately the electrical wires made of copper conduct the heat away after a certain point. So, an electrical conductivity of >10^6 S/m (basically metal) to conduct the electricity, but at the same time thermal conductivity of <0.2 W/mK so that it does not conduct the heat away.
 
  • #5
Use high resistance feed wires and increase the supply voltage .

If you use something like Nichrome wire and get your sums right the wire will get hot enough to be in thermal equilibrium with the substrate .
 
  • #6
Another way of doing the same thing is to use thermal buffering .

Blocks or rings of copper are arranged to surround the test piece and are heated by external means to a temperature similar to that of the test piece .
 

1. What is an electrically conductive and thermally insulating material?

An electrically conductive and thermally insulating material is a substance that allows the flow of electricity but restricts the transfer of heat. This means that it can conduct electricity without getting hot.

2. What are some examples of electrically conductive and thermally insulating materials?

Some examples of electrically conductive and thermally insulating materials include rubber, plastic, glass, and ceramics. These materials have high electrical conductivity due to the presence of free electrons, but their molecular structure limits the transfer of heat.

3. How are electrically conductive and thermally insulating materials used?

These materials are commonly used in electronic devices such as computers, cell phones, and televisions. They are also used in electrical wiring and insulation, as well as in the production of energy-efficient windows and building materials.

4. What are the benefits of using electrically conductive and thermally insulating materials?

The main benefit of using these materials is their ability to conduct electricity while preventing heat transfer. This makes them ideal for applications where electrical conductivity is necessary but heat generation must be limited. They also offer cost savings by reducing energy consumption and improving the efficiency of electronic devices.

5. Are there any disadvantages to using electrically conductive and thermally insulating materials?

One potential disadvantage is that these materials may not be suitable for high-temperature applications due to their limited thermal insulation properties. They also tend to be more expensive than traditional conductive materials. Additionally, their electrical conductivity may decrease over time due to oxidation or other factors.

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