High-temperature heat-capacity measurement up to 1500 K by the triple-cell DSC

Abstract

Although precise heat-capacity data at high temperatures are very important for modern technology such as nuclear engineering, space technology etc, the reliable methods of measurements up to 1000°C are scarce. We developed a new differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) for heat-capacity measurements from room temperature to 1500 K. In order to overcome difficulties encountered in high-temperature heat-capacity measurements with conventional DSC equipment, two new concepts were adopted for the design of this apparatus: a "triple-cell" system and triple-adiabatic temperature control. The heat capacities of several metals were determined from 300 to 1500 K to test the new apparatus. The heat capacities of Ni and Ti, which are known to have phase transitions were also successfully measured. The precision of the apparatus was estimated to be within ±3%. Some experimental results on important nuclear fuels are also given.