Interfacial Contact Resistance (ICR) measurements

Purpose

Electrical interfacial contact resistance (ICR)  is caused at the interface of two surfaces, in addition to the reistances of the materials. Measuring this property is crucial within applications such as fuel cells, batteries, and electrical contacts - where low ICR is directly connected to performance and safety. The method is also a powerful tool for analysing the effect of corrosion, by measurements before and after a corrosion layer is formed.

RISE offers this

RISE offers fundamental ICR measurements as part of our services within material characterization and corrosion analysis. By combining electrical measurements with a controlled pressure you will gain insight how the material behaves under actual conditions  and how corrosion affects the electrical contact.

Method

• Two gold coated probes are pressed against the sample surface at controlled pressures.
• A low current is passed through the sample and the voltage is measured between the surfaces
• The interfacial contact resistance (ICR) is measured at different compression pressures
• Measurements can be performed between sample and a reference surface or between two sample surfaces
• Probes in different sizes and geometries may be used after your need

The method can be combined with our corrosion measurements for a complete understanding of the electrical properties of the material and effects of corrosion. The method can be adapted to your needs, contact us for more info.

Leverans

The results are summerized in a report with the measured ICR values at chosen compression pressures. All raw data may be attached. In combination with other services these results will be included in the report. You will get a decision basis helping you optimize design, material choice, and durability.