Single laser beam measurement of thermal diffusivity

Thermal diffusion properties of interfaces are measured using self-induced surface thermal lensing with a single laser beam. The time evolution of the reflected beam reveals information on heat diffusion away from the interface. Unambiguous correlation between measured signal and thermal diffusivity is shown, theoretically and experimentally, from which calibration curves are obtained. Being simpler and less sensitive to vibrations and misalignments, the technique offers definite advantages over standard two-beam (pump-probe) methods.