Increased real contact in thermal interfaces: A carbon nanotube/foil material

The thermal performance of an interface material comprised of a metal foil with dense, vertically oriented carbon nanotube (CNT) arrays synthesized on both of its surfaces is characterized for rough and smooth interfaces. The CNT/foil deforms in the interfaces by two mechanisms, CNT deformation and foil deformation, that may significantly increase the number of CNT contact spots on both sides of the foil. As a result, thermal interface resistances less than 10 mm(2) K/W are achieved at moderate pressures and compare very favorably to alternative interface materials and structures. (c) 2007 American Institute of Physics.