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Thermal Conductivity Instrument for

Geological & Geothermal

Leading researchers use the C-Therm Trident Thermal Conductivity instrument to accurately measure the thermal conductivity of rocks, soils, geothermal grouts, drilling fluids and core samples to support geothermal energy, mining, and subsurface research.
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Why thermal conductivity measurement matters for geological research

Thermal conductivity is a critical design parameter for geothermal heat pump (GSHP) systems, borehole thermal energy storage (BTES), enhanced geothermal systems (EGS), underground transmission lines, and radioactive waste repositories. Accurate measurement in heterogeneous geological materials—from intact rock cores to loose soils and aggregates—requires an instrument capable of handling variations in density, moisture, and composition. ASTM D5334 specifies that measurements are applicable for both intact and reconstituted soil specimens and soft rock specimens, ensuring standardized, repeatable results.

Why the C-Therm Trident is Ideal for Geological & Geothermal Applications

The C-Therm Trident Thermal Conductivity Instrument is designed to handle a variety of geological and geothermal samples under representative lab and field conditions. The Trident delivers fast, accurate, and repeatable thermal conductivity measurements across rocks, soils, core samples, and aggregates, fully compliant with ASTM and ISO standards.

High Volume Testing
Measure thermal conductivity of rocks, soils, core samples, and aggregates on a single platform.
Representative Test Condition
Capture in-situ conditions by accounting for density, moisture, and composition variability.
Fast Transient Methods
MTPS, TPS, and TLS methods deliver accurate results in minutes per sample.
Standards & Compliance
Compliant with ASTM D5334, D5930, D7984, and ISO 22007-2 standards.

See it in Action

Request a demo to see how the C-Therm Trident delivers fast, accurate, and repeatable thermal conductivity measurements for geological and geothermal applications.

What Our Customers Say

  • NASA
    The instrument provides unequivocal results and provides the flexibility to test powders and liquids. In terms of our satisfaction with the purchase, I'd give it a 10 out of 10 – extremely satisfied.”
    Dr. Enrique Jackson
    NASA

Technical Specification by method

Method TC Range (W/m-K) Test Time Accuracy / Repeatability Application Standard Best For
MTPS 0.05 – 10 60-120 sec ±3% ASTM D7984 Flat rock surfaces, core slabs
TPS 0.05 – 5 30-90 sec ±5% ISO 22007-2 Soils, aggregates, prepared cores
TLS 0.05 – 10 60-120 sec ±3% ASTM D7984 Loose soils, aggregates, boreholes
THW 0.05 – 10 60-120 sec ±3% ASTM D7984 Grouts, coolants, fluid-saturated cores

Frequently Asked Questions

How are granular or unconsolidated materials like soil and aggregates measured?

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How does moisture content or saturation affect the results?

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Why is thermal conductivity mapping critical for geothermal infrastructure?

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What are the typical precision and accuracy levels for these instruments?

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Can the equipment be used for on-site or mobile lab testing?

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What is the best way to test geothermal grouts?

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What sample preparation is required for rock and sediment samples?

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How is bentonite used in geothermal heat exchangers?

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What international standards do these measurement methods follow?

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Why is thermal conductivity important in geological and geothermal applications?

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Can thermal conductivity be measured under high-pressure conditions?

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