Thermal diffusivity of gadolinium in the temperature range of 287–1277 K

New experimental data on the thermal diffusivity of gadolinium in the temperature interval from 287 to 1277 K obtained by the laser flash method with an error of 3–4% are presented. Results are compared with the available literature data. Reference tables on the heat transfer coefficients of gadolinium for scientific and practical use are developed. Critical indices for the thermal diffusivity of gadolinium above the Curie point are determined. The limitations of the laser flash method during measurement in the region of phase transformations are briefly discussed.