Abstract: The methodology disclosed permits the testing of fluids, solids, powders and pastes through the measurements of effusivity. Effusivity is a measurement that combines thermal conductivity, density, and heat capacity. Blend uniformity, homogeneity, miscibility, concentration, voiding\delamination, and moisture content are exemplary of the applications to which the present methodology is applicable. The method of monitoring homogeneity, miscibility, concentration, voiding\delamination, and moisture content in a material comprises the steps of measuring effusivity of a first portion of the material, measuring effusivity of a second portion of the_material, comparing each measurement. The caparison may be between the measurements themselves or to a predetermined range of values and indicating which portion has an out of range measurement.

Abstract: The thermal conductivity of a sample of interest is measured by applying backing material to a sensor to substantially surround the sensor with the backing material and the tested material. The instrument response of the sensor corresponds to the thermal conductivity of the combination of the tested sample and the backing material. The instrument is calibrated to cancel effects of the backing material out of the instrument response.

Abstract: A method of measuring thermal conductivity of a sample in both a machine direction and a transverse direction. The method is carried out with a probe having a electroconductive member in each of the above-mentioned directions. Upon application of a current to the probe, fluctuations in the voltage are received as a result of contact with the sample. This information is then used to generate a thermal conductivity ratio.