Thermal and optical characterization

This platform aims at measuring the optical and thermal properties of materials for the needs of characterization internal to the laboratory, French or international university laboratories or companies.

In terms of optical characterization, the platform has several spectrometers covering the whole range of optical radiation, from ultraviolet to far infrared. The measurements that can be carried out are varied (transmission, reflection, emissivity), on solid or liquid samples, from very low temperature (10K) to very high temperature (2000°C). The platform is also able to characterize the emission of thermal radiation sources.

Infrared thermography is in a good position among the available means of characterization. The platform has cameras covering the near infrared (SWIR), mid infrared (MWIR) and far infrared (LWIR) ranges. A multispectral camera (8 spectral bands) fast (1000 Hz full frame) has recently been acquired. Several black bodies, including one reaching 2600 °C, allow the calibration of cameras and spectrometers.

Regarding thermal properties, the platform performs measurements of thermal conductivity by various methods, adapted to the nature of the samples, and of heat capacity (DSC calorimeter).

The spectrometry means are used for the characterization of a large number of materials and are used by most of the laboratory teams: for example, characterization of fluorophores (“laser diagnostics” platform), membranes for fuel cells (“hydrogen and electrochemical systems” OS), or teams outside the laboratory, for example characterization of thermochromic materials (IJL).