Design and realization of characterization demonstrator to investigate thermal performance of vertically-aligned carbon nanotubes TIM for avionics and aerospace applications

In the joint project SMARTHERM the applicability of vertically-aligned carbon nanotubes (VA CNT) is main subject of interest. Target is the implementation of a VACNT layer as functional thermal interface material into an RF package to prove this promising technology's feasibility. This paper presents the approach the SMARTHERM consortium has taken so far. Beginning with a general motivation why to engage in this topic, the approach and the chosen demonstrator design are introduced. One focus lies on the description of the demonstrator and its components alongside with a comprehensive view into the assembling as main challenge. The choice of measurement techniques is discussed and the measures of success are defined. Finally, the results are presented, discussed and concluded and an outlook is provided how the findings influence further approaches in the project.