Investigation of the thermal conductivity of hexagonal boron nitride epoxy composites

Abstract

The subject of this study is to investigate the thermal conductivity of hexagonal boron nitride epoxy micro composites and whether it is affected by application of different dispersion techniques or sedimentation effects and by attributed effects regarding the condition of the thermal filler material. Specimens with filler content up to 50 wt.-% of the composite were prepared and analysed using several experimental methods for the examination of dispersion state, particle size distribution, sedimentation behaviour and thermal diffusivity measurement. The results show a discernable but small influence of the dispersion technique on the thermal conductivity, unless the thermally conductive fillers are damaged in the dispersion process. A more pronounced influence on thermal conductivity arises from effects associated with sedimentation and particle orientation in particular.