The Thermal Conductivity Scanner (TCS) measures the thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity of rock samples using the optical scanning technology developed by Yuri Popov. It employs the use of two heat sensors separated by a infrared lamp, calculating the thermal properties of the rock from its temperature before and after heating.
The instrument head is mounted on a track and is capable of measuring conductivity/diffusivity changes continuously across rock and core sections up to 1 meter in length. These changes indicate the level of homogeneity and anisotropy in the sample and can be mapped to find low/high spots. If the density of the sample is known then the specific heat capacity of the rock can also be calculated.
The TCS employs the use of standards with every measurement, calculating the difference between a known value and an unknown value. This means that calibrations are only needed after substantial changes to the hardware or setup. Also note that the rock samples must be prepared with a strip of black paint along the measurement surface.
The device is currently housed at the University of Melbourne.
