Low Heat/Thermal Conductivity Electric Conductive Materials

In summary, the conversation discusses electric conductive materials with low thermal conductivity and high electrical conductivity for various applications, such as thermoelectric cooling and cryogenic applications. Some possible materials mentioned include stainless steel, multi-layer laminate, superconducting materials like NbTiN, and alloys like copper-beryllium and copper-nickel. These materials are chosen for their ability to reduce electrical resistance and minimize heat transfer.
  • #1
abdulbadii
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TL;DR Summary
What is an electric conductive material which is the least heat/thermal conductive?
What is/are the electric conductive material(s) which has/have the least heat/thermal conductive?
 
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  • #2
What materials have you looked at so far? What is the application? Will this be a thin film, a solid wire or bus bar, or a liquid maybe? The more details you can give, the better we will be able to help you.
 
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  • #3
abdulbadii said:
What is/are the electric conductive material(s) which has/have the least heat/thermal conductive?
Some stainless steel alloys used for cookware or kettles may surprise you. The polished surface, and the internal grain structure, can be used to advantage.

If the low thermal conduction, and the high electrical conduction, can be arranged to be perpendicular, then consider a multi-layer laminate.

What is the application ?
 
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  • #4
Try searching thermoelectric cooling. From one of the hits:

Requirements for thermoelectric materials:
High electrical conductivity (to reduce electrical resistance, a source of waste heat);
Low thermal conductivity (so that heat doesn't come back from the hot side to the cool side); this usually translates to heavy elements


Sounds like what you are looking for.
 
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  • #5
Superconducting materials (both conventional and HTS), this is what is used in cryogenic applications. E.g. NbTiN is used both for DC and RF applications and that the electrical losses are very low is of course a bonus.

As has already been mentioned stainless steal is also an option, but might be a bit too lossy for many applications.
Generally speaking, alloys have lower thermal conductivity than "pure" metals and are therefore often used. copper-beryllium and copper-nickel would be two widely used examples.
 
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FAQ: Low Heat/Thermal Conductivity Electric Conductive Materials

What are low heat/thermal conductivity electric conductive materials?

Low heat/thermal conductivity electric conductive materials are materials that can conduct electricity efficiently while minimizing the transfer of heat. These materials are designed to have high electrical conductivity but low thermal conductivity, making them useful in applications where heat dissipation needs to be minimized.

Why are low heat/thermal conductivity electric conductive materials important?

These materials are important because they help in reducing energy loss due to heat dissipation in electrical systems. This is particularly crucial in electronic devices and systems where excessive heat can lead to inefficiency, damage, or failure of components. They are also vital in improving the performance and longevity of thermal-sensitive electronic devices.

What are some examples of low heat/thermal conductivity electric conductive materials?

Examples of such materials include certain polymers, carbon-based materials like graphene and carbon nanotubes, and some ceramics. Each of these materials has unique properties that allow them to conduct electricity effectively while limiting heat transfer.

In what applications are low heat/thermal conductivity electric conductive materials used?

These materials are used in a variety of applications including electronic packaging, thermal management systems, flexible electronics, and aerospace components. They are also used in the development of advanced batteries and fuel cells where efficient electrical conductivity and minimal heat transfer are critical.

What are the challenges in developing low heat/thermal conductivity electric conductive materials?

One of the main challenges is achieving a balance between electrical conductivity and thermal insulation. Most materials that conduct electricity well also tend to conduct heat. Researchers are continually working on new materials and composites to overcome this challenge. Additionally, manufacturing these materials in a cost-effective and scalable manner is another significant hurdle.

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