Thermal properties measurements using laser flash technique at cryogenic temperature

In the frame of the Italian TRASCO program, we have studied the possibility to stiffening SC cavities by deposition of thermal sprayed copper on thin niobium. We have investigated the use of the laser flash technique to test the thermal conductivity in the normal direction of deposited copper with the pure coat technique. The use of Au-Fe/Cromel P thermocouples as temperature sensors, motivated by the need to adapt the classical technology from room temperature to the cryogenic environment, allowed the thermal transient study. A great effort has been spent to develop data analysis procedures, in order to reduce noise and heat dissipation effects. The measurements have demonstrated the reliability of the apparatus and the results confirm the interest in the copper spraying stiffening for the SC cavities.