Measuring Thermal Conductivity of Geological Materials & Geothermal Grouts

Accurate thermal conductivity measurement is essential across a growing range of geoscience and energy applications, from geothermal system design and subsurface mapping to planetary science research. Yet testing geological materials presents a unique set of challenges that demand both versatile instrumentation and robust methodology. This webinar explores thermal conductivity testing of geological materials including rock core samples, geothermal grouts, and lunar rock and dust samples. Rock core analysis plays a critical role in geothermal resource mapping, while geothermal grouts must be characterized under conditions that reflect real-world installation environments. Lunar and planetary samples introduce additional complexity, requiring specialized handling and measurement approaches. Attendees will gain insight into the key challenges facing researchers and laboratory professionals in this space, including: High-throughput testing demands – how to efficiently process large numbers of samples without sacrificing accuracy or repeatability Representative testing conditions – the importance of testing under elevated pressures that reflect subsurface environments, and how purpose-built instrumentation supports this Sample format versatility – strategies for measuring irregular, fragile, or unconsolidated materials across a range of geometries using multi-sensor systems The session will highlight how you can addresses these challenges through transient thermal conductivity methods due to its ease of use, fast test times, and the flexibility to accommodate diverse sample types and testing conditions. Whether you work in the field collecting cores, in the lab characterizing materials, or at the intersection of both, this webinar will provide practical guidance for improving the reliability and efficiency of your thermal conductivity measurements.