Chapter 5:Review of the Methods for Thermal Conductivity Measurements Most Appropriate for Thermoelectric Materials

There are many well-established methods for thermal conductivity measurements. However, the thermoelectric community does not currently make use of all the knowledge available in this field. The aim of this review is to refresh the awareness of researchers about the complexity of the phenomenon and the uncertainties associated with the existing measurement methods. The chapter also provides useful information to those that intend to improve their current measurement facilities. In relation to steady-state thermal conductivity measurements, we show that the minimum uncertainty achievable is often larger than that stated in the current thermoelectric literature. Measurement issues associated with the transient methods are also briefly discussed.