Absolute measurements of the thermal diffusivity of aqueous solutions of sodium chloride

The laser-induced thermal grating technique was used to determine the thermal diffusivity of aqueous solutions of sodium chloride. In comparison with conventional measurement methods, this noninvasive optical technique has the advantage that no sensors need to be inserted in the sample. Therefore, this technique is especially suitable for the measurement of electrically conducting and corrosive liquids. The aqueous solutions studied have weight fractions of 5, 10, 15, and 20% sodium chloride. Measurement results for the thermal diffusivity are presented for aqueous solutions of sodium chloride in the temperature range 293 to 373 K at atmospheric pressure.