For steady-state heat flow, the proportionality constant between
the heat flux and the temperature gradient. Also, a parameter
characterizing the ability of a material to conducting heat.
Thermal expansion coefficient, linear (α)
The fractional change in length divided by the change in
temperature.
Thermal fatigue
A type of fatigue failure that introduces the cyclic stresses by
fluctuating thermal stresses.
Thermal shock
The fracture of a brittle material resulting from stresses
introduced by a rapid temperature change.
Thermal stress
A residual stress introduced within a body resulting from a change
in temperature.
Thermistor
A temperature-measuring device, that contains a resistor or
semiconductor whose resistance varies with temperature.
Thermocouple
A temperature-measuring device, which contains a pair of
end-joined dissimilar conductors in which an electromotive force
is developed by thermoelectric effects when the joined ends and
the free ends of the conductors are a different temperature.
Thermoplastic polymer
A substance that when molded to a certain shape under appropriate
conditions can later be remelted.
Thermoset polymer
A substance that when molded to a certain shape under pressure and
high temperatures cannot be softened again or dissolved.
