Supporting emerging technology uptake for thermodynamic temperature dissemination

Accurate temperature measurements are vital across modern life, from industrial thermometry to environmental monitoring. Since 2019, the SI unit for temperature, the kelvin (K), has been defined in terms of the fundamental Boltzmann constant. This redefinition has driven the development of new, ground-breaking approaches to realise and disseminate thermodynamic temperature.

EURAMET projects have led significant research into primary thermometry techniques and expanded Europe’s temperature metrology infrastructure over wider temperature ranges. Primary thermometry in the 4 K to 300 K (-269 °C to 27 °C) range, directly relevant to key fields including quantum technology, health and energy, has been addressed by projects like DirecK-T and PhoQuS-T. However, traceable dissemination of the kelvin also requires robust secondary thermometry in this range, which is not yet well supported, e.g., through adequate transfer standards.

This project will improve the dissemination of the kelvin by improving thermometry expertise at emerging National Metrology Institutes (NMIs). A selection of thermometers (including capsule-type resistance thermometers and thin-film sensors) will be evaluated to determine their suitability as transfer standards in the 4 K to 300 K range. Time and cost-effective calibration procedures for these thermometers will also be defined. The selected thermometers and new calibrations will then be evaluated by inter-laboratory comparisons between participants, and protocols and guidelines for the dissemination of thermodynamic temperature will be produced and made available to end-users.

The project’s work will improve access to accurate, traceable temperature measurements across Europe which in turn will improve thermometry applications, reducing waste from industry, improving healthcare and enabling vital climate monitoring.