Laser Flash Analyzer

LFA 1000

High-performance LaserFlash for measuring thermophysical properties

Description

The LINSEIS LFA L52 is a high-performance Laser Flash Analyzer designed for the precise determination of thermal diffusivity, thermal conductivity and specific heat across an exceptionally wide range of applications. The system supports simultaneous measurement of up to 3, 6 or 18 samples, enabling high throughput in research, development and quality control. Thanks to its modular furnace concept, the LFA L52 covers an unprecedented temperature range from -100°C to 2800°C, making it suitable for solids, powders, pastes and liquids used in industries such as aerospace, ceramics, metallurgy, energy storage and high-performance electronics.

As an absolute measurement method, the laser flash technique requires no calibration standards and complies with international standards such as ASTM E-1461 and DIN EN 821-2. The LFA L52 can be equipped with user-exchangeable detectors and offers optional vacuum and inert gas operation for maximum control of measurement conditions. A turntable for a second furnace is available to reduce downtime and enable an uninterrupted transition between temperature ranges. With fast, non-contact measurements, minimal sample preparation and outstanding accuracy, the LFA L52 sets new standards for advanced thermophysical material characterization.

Unique features

Software Improvements

  • New LINSEIS LiEAP Software Platform
    A completely redesigned software environment focused on ease of use, efficient data processing and optimized workflows. Tailored toolsets support thermophysical analysis with faster setup, clearer navigation and improved process control.
  • Automatic Updates and Continuous Feature Enhancements
    Regular automatic updates ensure that users always benefit from the latest features, stability improvements and security upgrades – without downtime or manual installation.
  • Lex Bus Plug & Play Integration
    The modern Lex Bus hardware interface enables seamless communication between laser, detector, furnace and electronics. New hardware modules can be added effortlessly, ensuring long-term scalability of the system.
  • High-Speed Data Acquisition Tools
    Full support for the L52’s ultra-fast 2.5 MHz data acquisition ensures improved pulse triggering, curve fitting and diffusion evaluation – ideal for thin samples, highly conductive materials and fast heat transfer processes.

Linseis Lab Link

With Linseis Lab Link, we offer an integrated solution to eliminate uncertainties in measurement results. Through direct access to our application experts via the software, you receive advice on the correct measurement procedure and the evaluation of results. This direct communication ensures optimal results and maximizes the efficiency of your measurements for precise analysis and research as well as a smooth process flow.

The new instrument design features a sleek and robust aluminum housing that combines mechanical sturdiness with modern aesthetics. An integrated LED status bar provides clear, at-a-glance visualization of operating conditions, while the touch panel enables intuitive, optimized operation. The overall design emphasizes ergonomic handling and a contemporary user experience that improves both comfort and functionality.

Full support for the L52’s ultra-fast 2.5 MHz data acquisition enables exceptionally precise recording of the laser pulse and the resulting temperature response. The high sampling density improves pulse triggering, curve fitting, noise reduction and the accuracy of the diffusion coefficient calculation over the entire time range. This high-speed capability is particularly beneficial for thin samples, materials with very high thermal conductivity, multilayer structures or any applications with fast heat transfer where conventional acquisition rates would be insufficient to resolve the thermal transient with sufficient clarity.

The LFA L52 instruments can be upgraded with the PLH (Periodic Laser Heating) option. This patented 2-in-1 solution offers two measurement techniques in one device, maximizing the application range and enabling the analysis of samples with a thickness from µm to mm.

PLH technology was specifically developed and optimized to characterize thin-film samples with unprecedented accuracy. It covers a measurement range of sample thicknesses from 10 μm to 500 μm and a thermal diffusivity range from 0.01 to 2000 mm²/s.

The PLH L53 option can handle a variety of materials and is therefore suitable for:

  • Heat spreader materials such as graphite foils and thin copper foils,
  • Semiconductors with complex thermal properties,
  • Metals requiring precise diffusion measurements,
  • Ceramics and polymers used in advanced material systems.

Anisotropy and Inhomogeneity Analysis

With its advanced mapping capabilities, the PLH system enables spatially resolved measurement of thermal conductivity across a sample. This feature is particularly valuable for identifying anisotropies (directional differences in thermal behavior) and inhomogeneities (material inconsistencies). By scanning multiple areas, users gain a comprehensive understanding of the thermal properties of thin layers, ensuring optimized material performance for demanding applications.

Applications and Industry Focus

Typical applications include the analysis of free-standing foils and membranes, which are becoming increasingly important in the battery and hydrogen industries. The ability to accurately measure the heat transport properties of these materials is crucial for improving energy efficiency, thermal management and overall system performance.

Key Features at a Glance

  • Anisotropy analysis: Seamlessly combines through-plane and in-plane measurements.
  • Versatile material compatibility: Suitable for semiconductors, metals, ceramics and polymers.
  • Mapping capability: Enables precise spatial analysis of anisotropies and inhomogeneities within the sample.
  • High measurement accuracy: Covers a broad range of sample thicknesses and thermal conductivity values.

Highlights

Wide temperature range:
-100°C to 2800°C

High precision
and repeatability
of measurements

Modular design for
flexible customization

Fast measuring times thanks to
advanced technology

User-friendly software
for comprehensive data analysis

Compatibility with different
sample geometries and materials

Key features

New Electronics

  • Improved Detector and Amplifier Electronics
    An improved signal-to-noise ratio and a larger dynamic range ensure clean, high-resolution signals, even with thin or highly conductive samples.
  • 2.5 MHz High-Speed Data Acquisition
    Ultra-fast sampling captures fast thermal transients with greater precision, improving pulse detection and diffusion evaluation.
  • Stabilized Laser Current Control
    The new driver electronics deliver highly consistent laser pulses with adjustable energy, improving reproducibility across all temperature ranges.

Widest temperature range in its class

Covers a range from -100°C to 2800°C through modular furnace options, enabling applications from cryogenics to ultra-high temperature materials.

Multi-sample capability (3, 6 or 18 samples)

By simultaneously analyzing multiple samples under identical temperature, atmosphere and laser pulse conditions, the LFA L52 significantly increases throughput for R&D and QC workflows. Entire material series, production batches or comparative studies can be processed in a single run with minimal operator intervention, while the uniform test environment at all positions ensures directly comparable results with high statistical reliability.

Flexible sample holder system

The LFA L52’s flexible sample holder system is suitable for a wide variety of material forms, including solids, powders, pastes, liquids, thin films, ceramics, metals, refractories and ultra-high temperature ceramics (UHTCs). Interchangeable holder geometries and materials ensure optimal thermal contact, controlled boundary conditions and minimal heat loss for each sample type. Thanks to this versatility, users can characterize everything from low-density insulating materials to dense engineering ceramics and metal alloys on the same platform, making the LFA L52 suitable for virtually any thermophysical analysis workflow.

Full Sample Illumination

The LFA L52 ensures complete and uniform illumination of samples with a diameter of up to 25.4 mm and ensures that the laser pulse penetrates the entire sample surface without creating radial temperature gradients. This homogeneous heating leads to higher reproducibility, improved data quality and consistent measurement results across different materials, thicknesses and geometries.

Questions? Just give us a call!

+49 (0) 9287/880 0

Our service is available Monday to
Thursday from 8 am to 4 pm
and Friday from 8 am to 12 pm.

We are here for you!

Specifications

Temperature range: -100°C to 2800°C

Icon for targeted measurement solutions

High-energy Nd:YAG laser: up to 25 J/pulse

Vacuum and controlled atmospheres: up to 10⁻⁵ mbar

Discover our high-performance LFA L52 – developed for fast and reliable thermophysical analysis:

  • Detector options: InSb or MCT detectors, available with LN₂ cooling
  • Atmosphere control: Inert, reducing or oxidizing environments; vacuum capability up to 10⁻⁵ mbar
  • Sample handling: Compatible with solids, powders, pastes, liquids, laminates and thin films
  • Laser pulse recording: Ultra-fast 2.5 MHz data acquisition for precise transient analysis
  • Furnace configuration: Optional dual-furnace turntable for continuous high-throughput workflows

Method

Laser Flash Analysis

The Light Flash Method (LFA) is a fast, non-contact technique for determining the thermal diffusivity, the specific heat and the Thermal conductivity of solids, powders and pastes. A short energy pulse heats the back of the sample, and the resulting temperature rise on the front is recorded over time using a high-speed infrared detector recorded over time.

The temperature rise curve reflects how quickly heat propagates through the sample. The thermal diffusivity is calculated from this data. If the specific heat and density of the material are known, the thermal conductivity can also be determined.

LFA is a non-destructive and high-precision method widely used in materials research, electronics, aerospace and energy applications. Its key advantages include short measurement times, minimal sample preparation effort and the ability to test a wide range of materials – all with high repeatability and under controlled atmospheric conditions.

LFA L52

Measurement Principle

In an LFA measurement, the sample is brought to a defined temperature in a furnace and then exposed to a short, high-energy laser pulse on its rear side. The absorbed energy creates an immediate temperature rise that propagates through the thickness of the sample and appears on the front side.

This temperature change is recorded over time by a fast infrared detector. The thermal diffusivity is calculated from the resulting temperature-time curve based on the sample thickness and the characteristic half-time of the temperature rise. With additional knowledge of the specific heat and density, the thermal conductivity can also be determined.

The process provides precise results within short measurement times, requires only a simple sample geometry and supports measurements under vacuum or controlled gas atmospheres.

Measured Quantities

  • Multi-sample measurement (up to 18 samples)
  • Thin film analysis (with PLH module)
  • Isothermal and temperature-dependent measurements
  • Analysis of anisotropic materials
  • Measurement of powders, pastes, solids and laminates
  • Measurement under controlled atmospheres (inert, reducing, oxidizing)
  • Vacuum measurements (up to 10⁻⁵ mbar)
  • High-speed data acquisition for fast thermal events

A head start with the LFA L52 – high-performance solutions for advanced thermophysical analysis

PLH L53 - Periodic Laser Heating

Precise measurement of the thermal conductivity and temperature capability of thin layers and materials

LFA L51

Simple and cost-effective measurement of thermal conductivity

LFA L52 Nuclear

High-performance Nuclear-LaserFlash for measuring thermophysical properties

Questions? Just give us a call!

+49 (0) 9287/880 0

Our service is available Monday to
Thursday from 8 am to 4 pm
and Friday from 8 am to 12 pm.

We are here for you!

Presenting LFA L52 – how it works, where it is used, what it offers

Measurement Concept

The sample is placed on a sample holder located in a furnace that maintains a defined measurement temperature. A programmable energy pulse is applied to the back of the sample, causing a transient temperature rise at the front. This temperature response is captured by a highly sensitive, fast infrared (IR) detector. Both the thermal diffusivity and the specific heat can be determined from the resulting temperature-time curve. If the material density (ρ) is known, the thermal conductivity can be calculated using the following formula:

λ=thermal conductivity [W/m•K] α=thermal diffusivity [mm2/s] Cp=specific heat [J/g•K] ρ=density [g/cm3] T=temperature

LFA L52 1250/1600

The standard model is designed for metals and ceramics and is ideal for applications requiring high sample throughput. It enables the simultaneous measurement of 3, 6 or 18 samples and supports sample diameters up to 25.4 mm, enabling precise analysis of thermal diffusivity, thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity.

LFA L52 2000/2400/2800

The high-temperature version enables measurements up to 2000 / 2400 / 2800 °C and is equipped with a sample robot for up to three samples with a diameter of 12.7 mm.

Special configurations are available for glovebox or hot cell environments.

Typical applications include refractory materials, graphite or nuclear applications.

LFA L52 2400

Provides accurate measurements at temperatures up to 2400 °C using a tungsten furnace, enabling graphite-free analysis over a wide temperature range.

Equipped with a sample robot for up to three samples (12.7 mm), the model ensures high throughput and precise Cp measurements.

LFA L52 LT

The low-temperature version provides precise measurements from -100 °C to 500 °C for various applications.

Lower laser power in this range can be a decisive factor for high-precision measurement results.

Different sample holder types allow the measurement of a wide range of sample sizes from 3 to 25.4 mm in solid, liquid, powder or paste form. In addition, sample carriers for phase change materials are available. The Linseis sample robot can measure up to 6 samples simultaneously, with options for up to 18 samples available on request. Materials for the sample holders include graphite, SiC, alumina or various metals.

Sample Holders

Supported Model Selection

The software allows the selection of different evaluation models. To assist the user in the selection, the fit quality of all models can be easily displayed to ensure ease of use and maximum accuracy.

Empirical data from customers and Linseis application laboratories worldwide show that the combined Dusza model is the most universally applicable and usually provides the best agreement between measurement data and model for a wide variety of materials.

Combined Dusza Model – A unique combined solution for simultaneously correcting heat losses and finite pulse effects with the laser flash method

The universal combined model, based on the proven Dusza method, enables reliable evaluation of laser flash data by simultaneously correcting for heat losses, finite pulses and non-adiabatic conditions. Thanks to non-linear parameter estimation, no manual model selection is required, which saves time and avoids user errors. The method has been tested on over 100 samples and consistently delivers accurate results of the highest quality. The example with an Inconel sample clearly shows: the combined model offers the best fit and highest precision compared to conventional approaches.

* Dusza, Laszlo. "Combined solution of simultaneous heat loss and finite pulse corrections with the laser flash method." High Temperatures-High Pressures (1995): 467-473.

Modified Combination Model / Special Model for Translucent Samples

Standard Heat Loss Model
Modified Model

As shown in the graph, the temperature rise caused by the induced energy pulse leads to an immediate increase in the detector signal for translucent samples. This initial signal must be taken into account and corrected, as it distorts the measurement result to an apparently higher thermal conductivity. Previously, existing models could not represent this phenomenon of immediate temperature rise sufficiently well. Our unique combined model allows for the correction of sample data and provides a tailored fit, resulting in significantly improved measurement results.

The McMasters model is a specialized tool designed to analyze heat transfer in porous materials precisely and flexibly.

Key Features:

  • One-dimensional heat transfer model for accurate analysis.
  • Includes the finite penetration depth of the initial pulse as an important fitting parameter.
  • Accounts for heat losses at both the front and back of the sample.

This advanced model, based on the work of McMasters et al.*, ensures reliable and detailed results and

is thus an indispensable option for complex thermal investigations.

* McMasters, Robert L. et al. “Accounting for Penetration of Laser Heating in Flash Thermal Diffusivity Experiments”. ASME. J. Heat transfer (1999): 121(1): 15-21.

Large diameter
Small diameter

Measurement Principle

In a flash system, signal quality depends on the amount of radiation from the sample that hits the surface of the infrared detector. Normally, the active surface of the detector is limited (e.g. 2 x 2 mm²), compared to a sample diameter of (3 mm to 25.4 mm). For this reason, an optimized arrangement of IR detector, lens and sample is used to improve the imaged sample surface. The measurement spot on the sample should be as large as possible, but not project beyond the sample. Projecting the spot can lead to measurement artifacts or additional noise in the signal. The Vision Control function ensures the best signal quality for every sample size. The optimization ensures excellent signal quality for large and small samples.

Vision Control

The “Vision Control” option ensures a perfect detection point for different sample geometries. This allows for the perfect adjustment to image the sample surface ideally and sharply on the active area of the sensor.

*Not available in all configurations and countries.

The price for an LFA L52 system depends on the chosen configuration and additional options, such as temperature range, detector type, automation features or special sample holders. As each system can be tailored to your specific application requirements, costs can vary significantly.
For a precise quote, please submit your requirements via our contact form – we will gladly prepare a customized offer for you.

The delivery time for an LFA L52 largely depends on the chosen options and configuration. Additional features such as extended temperature ranges, special detectors, automation or custom adaptations can extend production and preparation time and thus increase delivery time.
Please contact us via our contact form to receive an accurate delivery estimate based on your specific requirements.

Software

Making values visible and comparable

ALL-NEW LiEAP Software

The newly developed LiEAP software includes AI-based assistance that minimizes operator error and reduces measurement uncertainty. In addition, the software supports various unique models, including the Dusza model, capable of handling transparent, porous, liquid, and powder samples as well as multilayer systems.

Key Features

  • Fully compatible MS®Windows™ software
  • Data security in case of power failure
  • Safety features (protection against thermocouple break, power outage, etc.)
  • Online and offline evaluation of ongoing measurements
  • Curve comparison
  • Storage and export of evaluations
  • ASCII data import and export
  • Data export to MS Excel
  • Multi-method analysis (DIL, STA, DSC, HCS, LSR, LZT, LFA)
  • Programmable gas control
  • NEW workflow
  • Measurement data is automatically stored in a database.


Cp determination (specific heat) by comparative method

To calculate the specific heat capacity, the maximum temperature rise of the sample is compared with the maximum temperature rise of a reference sample. Both the unknown and the reference sample are measured under the same conditions in a single run with the sample robot. Thus, it can be assumed that the energy of the laser pulse and the sensitivity of the infrared detector are the same for both measurements.

Pulse Detection

To improve the accuracy of the Cp measurement, it is essential to measure the energy of the pulse and the sensitivity of the detector instead of assuming them to be constant.

Therefore, the updated LFA L51 provides the capability to record the pulse shape, analyze the pulse shape, and apply an energy correction within the fully automated measurement cycle. This enables high-precision specific heat capacity determination in comparative measurement mode using a known reference material.

Evaluation Software

  • Automatic or manual input of associated measurement data: e.g. density and specific heat
  • Universal combined evaluation model for data evaluation
  • Special models for translucent or porous samples


Evaluation Models

  • Dusza combined model
  • NEW McMasters model (for porous samples)
  • 2-/3-layer models
  • Parker
  • Cowan 5 and 10
  • Azumi
  • Clark-Taylor
  • Degiovanni
  • Finite pulse correction
  • Heat loss correction
  • Baseline correction
  • Multilayer model
  • Contact resistance determination
  • Correction for translucent samples


Measuring software

  • Easy and user-friendly data entry for temperature segments, gases, etc.
  • Controllable sample robot
  • Software automatically displays corrected measurement values after the energy pulse
  • Fully automated measurement routine for multi-sample runs
  • Customer support
  • Simple mode for fast, efficient measurements
  • Expert mode for maximum customization
  • Service model monitors instrument status and provides feedback

Application

Ceramics & Glass

Glass and ceramics are indispensable materials in both traditional and high-tech applications. From household items to sophisticated components in electronics, aerospace and medical technology, their unique mechanical, thermal and chemical properties enable versatile use under demanding conditions.
Thermal analysis methods play a crucial role in material development and process optimization. They provide precise insights into thermal conductivity, heat capacity, thermal expansion and sintering behavior. This allows manufacturers to fine-tune compositions, improve energy efficiency and ensure product performance for a wide range of glass and ceramic materials – including technical ceramics, smart surfaces and fiber-reinforced composites.

Application example: Thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity and specific heat capacity of glass ceramics

BCR 724, a standard glass ceramic, was measured with LFA L52. For this purpose, a small disk with a thickness of 1 mm and a diameter of 25.4 mm was cut from a plate of the bulk material and coated with graphite for the measurement. The LFA L52 gives the thermal diffusivity as a direct function of temperature. The Cp data were determined comparatively by measuring a known ceramic standard under the same conditions in a second sample position of the same sample holder. Based on this data, the thermal conductivity was calculated from the product of density, specific heat and thermal diffusivity. The result shows a slightly decreasing thermal diffusivity and conductivity, while the Cp value increases with rising temperature.

Application example: Thermal conductivity of glass ceramics

Pyroceram, a glass ceramic brand from Corning used as a standard material in various applications, was measured with the LFA L52 to show the reproducibility of thermal conductivity values. A total of 18 measurements were performed with 18 samples cut from one block. Each sample was measured separately, and the result shows a scatter in the range of +/- 1% in a temperature range up to 1160°C.

Application example: Thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity and specific heat capacity of glass ceramics

The measurement shown shows the temperature-dependent thermal conductivity of alumina in the range from room temperature to 1500°C. At low temperatures, alumina exhibits relatively high thermal diffusivity values of about 0.11 cm²/s. A sharp decrease is observed with increasing temperature, reaching values near 0.015 cm²/s at high temperatures.

Knowledge of this property is essential for applications in refractories, substrates and structural ceramics where reliable thermal management and long-term stability are required.

New materials play a crucial role in technological innovation – from lightweight composites in aerospace to high-performance ceramics and semiconductors. Their development requires detailed knowledge of thermophysical properties such as thermal diffusivity, thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity.

LINSEIS LFA systems enable fast, non-destructive and precise measurement of these important parameters. This makes them indispensable tools in materials research and development, especially for polymers, ceramics, hybrid materials and high-temperature alloys. With accurate LFA data, researchers can optimize heat flow, improve performance under thermal stress and support the development of safer, more efficient and more sustainable materials.

Application example: Thermal conductivity of graphite

A graphite sample was investigated with the LFA L51. The thermal conductivity was determined directly at several temperatures between room temperature and 1000°C. The specific heat capacity was determined using a known graphite standard in a second sample position as a reference in the same measurement. The product of diffusivity, specific heat and density gives the corresponding thermal conductivity. The result shows a typical linearly decreasing thermal conductivity and a thermal diffusivity that exhibits a plateau above 500°C. The Cp increases slightly with temperature.

Materials used in nuclear systems must withstand extreme thermal, mechanical and radiation stresses. Their thermal conductivity, expansion behavior and resistance to corrosion or radiation damage are critical for maintaining reactor safety and preventing the release of radioactive materials under operating conditions.

Thermal analysis methods provide valuable insights into material degradation, phase transitions and long-term stability at high temperatures and pressures. They support the development of advanced alloys, ceramic composites and radiation-resistant materials for fuel rods, reactor vessels and next-generation concepts such as molten salt reactors and SMRs. This enables reliable life assessments, improved safety margins and optimized performance of critical nuclear components.

Application example: Thermal conductivity of graphite

A graphite sample was analyzed with the LFA L52 from room temperature to 2000°C. The thermal conductivity was determined directly and the specific heat capacity was measured using a reference sample in the same run.

The results show a sharp decrease in conductivity with increasing temperature, which flattens out above ~1500°C – a typical behavior of graphite due to increased phonon scattering at high temperatures.

Well informed

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LFA 1000

High-performance LaserFlash for measuring thermophysical properties

LFA-1000