Project Info
*Thermal conductivity at ultralow temperatures
Meenakshi Singh
msingh@mines.edu
Thermal conductivity measurements at ultra low temperatures are extremely challenging because the thermal conductivities are typically small at these temperatures, counterintuitive effects come into play, and the measurement hardware is not readily available. So, the thermal conductivities of many materials at ultralow temperatures (< 1K) are not known. We have a setup (in collaboration with DU), the measurement hardware, and the know how to measure this property for assorted materials.
More Information:
Grand Challenge: Engineer the tools of scientific discovery
doi: 10.1103/PhysRevMaterials.4.065003
Primary Contacts:
Meenakshi Singh
Kirsten Blagg (Ph.D. student)
Student Preparation
Qualifications
1. Experience with electronic measurement
2. Basic knowledge of thermal transport
3. Programming in python
4. Experimental experience (understanding noise, error analysis etc.)
TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)
5
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED
1. cryogenics
2. programming for data acquisition and instrument control
3. nanofabrication
MENTORING PLAN
I meet once a week in an individual meeting and once in two weeks in a group meeting with the student. I am available for help in lab outside of this via appointment. A plan for progress is provided in week 1 of the project.
PREFERRED STUDENT STATUS
Sophomore
Junior