Thermal conductivity through the nineteenth century

TL;DR

This paper discusses the significance of thermal conductivity across various sciences and highlights the challenges in its direct measurement, relying instead on electrical proxies.

Contribution

It provides a historical overview of thermal conductivity measurement techniques and emphasizes the importance of accurate proxy-based methods.

Findings

Thermal conductivity is crucial in multiple scientific fields.

Direct measurement of heat flow remains challenging.

Electrical proxies are essential for accurate thermal conductivity assessment.

Abstract

As a material property and as a metaphor, thermal conductivity occupies an important position in physical, biological and geological sciences. Yet, its precise measurement is dependent on using electricity as a proxy because flowing heat cannot directly be measured.