Hyperbolic Heat Conduction Equation for Materials With a Nonhomogeneous Inner Structure

The physical meaning of the constant τ in Cattaneo and Vernotte’s equation for materials with a nonhomogeneous inner structure has been considered. An experimental determination of the constant τ has been proposed and some values for selected products have been given. The range of differences in the description of heat transfer by parabolic and hyperbolic heat conduction equations has been discussed. Penetration time, heat flux, and temperature profiles have been taken into account using data from the literature and our experimental and calculated results.